In a match charged with fervor and ambition, Comet Shipping Agencies emerged victorious over the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) in the second semi-final of the 14th Ships & Ports Maritime Cup Competition, securing a 3-1 win and booking their place in the final for the very first time.
Played under the bright skies of anticipation, this historic clash unfolded like a masterful drama at the Stable Sports Complex in Surulere, Lagos.
The game began with Comet Shipping setting an early tone of dominance. Just eight minutes into the match, Richard Onyema delivered a stunning opener, marking Comet’s intent with a goal that sent a ripple of excitement through their supporters. Buoyed by this early lead, Comet intensified their attack, and in the 17th minute, Ronaldo Martins seized an opportunity to double the score with a powerful strike. Comet was up 2-0, and the inland waterways team could only watch as their opponents moved like a well-coordinated symphony, each pass and play flowing with purpose.
As the teams returned for the second half, NIWA’s top striker, the resilient Seltin Lar, donned his number 10 jersey with determination, taking matters into his own hands. In a display of skill and agility, Lar found his moment, piercing Comet’s defense to score in the opening minutes of the second half. His goal breathed life into NIWA’s side, raising hopes of a comeback as they fought fiercely to close the gap.
However, Comet’s resolve remained unshaken. Their defensive line held firm against NIWA’s renewed energy, while their offensive strategy searched for the final blow to secure victory. That moment came in the 76th minute, when Joel Effiong broke through NIWA’s defenses and struck a third goal, sealing NIWA’s fate and stamping Comet’s ticket to the final. The inland waterways team fought valiantly to the end, but it was Comet Shipping’s day—a day they would remember as they reached their first-ever final in the competition’s history.
This landmark victory propels Comet Shipping Agencies to face the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) in a much-anticipated final on Wednesday, November 6, 2024. Remarkably, it is the first time both teams have reached the grand stage, and the maritime community awaits what promises to be a thrilling and historic showdown.
Reflecting on the tournament’s journey thus far, Dr Bolaji Akinola, the CEO of Ships & Ports, organizers of the Maritime Cup, expressed great satisfaction with the level of competition and the exemplary officiating that has underscored each match.
“The talent and sportsmanship displayed by all the teams have made this year’s competition an unforgettable spectacle. As we prepare for what promises to be an epic final, we commend the match officials for their professionalism and dedication, ensuring that each game upholds the highest standards of fairness and integrity,” he said.
With the stage set for an electrifying final, the 14th Ships & Ports Maritime Cup Competition has reached its climax, celebrating the spirit of competition and unity within Nigeria’s maritime community. All eyes now turn to the impending final, where history awaits either Comet Shipping or the Nigerian Shippers’ Council.
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