JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
Firsttouch FC will have to navigate the playoffs for a place in the round of 16 of the RAK/BDFA League after finishing third in the group stage of the Ojo Zona 2 competition.
The subsidiary finished its five-game group stage with three wins and two losses, adding nine points out of a possible 15.
They scored 10 goals and conceded eight, which leaves them with a goal difference of +2.
Firsttouch FC finished level on points with Brilliant Sport FA, but missed out on automatic qualification due to inferior goal difference. Leads led the pack with 10 points.
The team closed out the group stage in style on Friday with an entertaining 5-3 win over Budu Elites FA.
The result provided a major confidence boost as Firstouch now prepares for the playoffs, where they will need another win if they are to keep their last 16 hopes alive.
Sossou: We have to improve
Firsttouch head coach Michael Amaze Sossou says his players have shown encouraging signs during the group stage, but they must improve heading into the playoffs.
“It’s been a good campaign, although we would have preferred to qualify automatically,” Sossou said.
“The boys have shown character and commitment throughout the group stage. We have scored 10 goals, which shows the quality we have for the future, but conceding eight is something we have to work on.”
“The playoffs will be different. Every game will be important and there will be no room for mistakes. We have to stay focused, work hard and be more disciplined.”
Sossou believes Friday’s 5-3 victory can give his players momentum heading into the next phase.
“Winning our last group game was important for the players’ confidence. Now we have to carry that confidence into the playoffs.
“We believe in the team and we believe we can progress. But we have to work for it.”
Atamah calls for hard work
Academy President Vicent Atamah has urged players to stay focused after narrowly missing out on automatic qualification.
Atamah praised the team’s efforts but insisted that the players cannot afford to relax at this stage of the competition.
“The boys have done well so far and deserve credit for their commitment,” Atamah said.
“However, the work is not over. Losing automatic qualification should not discourage them, but rather motivate them to work even harder.
“The playoffs give us another chance to achieve our goal, so the players must remain disciplined, focused and united.”
Atamah also urged the team to maintain their work ethic both on and off the field.
“We believe in these boys and in the work that the coaching staff is doing, they have the ability to go far, but talent alone is not enough.
“They must continue to work hard, listen to their coaches and give their all every time they step on the field.”
What’s next?
Firsttouch FC now turn their attention to the playoffs, knowing that victory is essential if they want to reach the round of 16.
After a group campaign that produced three wins, 10 goals and nine points, the academy team will hope that their strong finish against Budu Elites can provide a platform for another decisive performance.
The objective is clear: win the playoff and keep the dream of the round of 16 alive.
