2024/2025 NNL Match Day 15: Famuyiwa’s last-gasp strike earns Gateway United vital point in owerri

Posted : 28 April 2025

Gateway United snatched a dramatic 2-2 away draw against Kun Khalifat at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, thanks to Olufemi Famuyiwa's stoppage-time heroics in the Nigeria National League (NNL) Match Day 15 fixture.

It was a dominant performance from the visitors, who dictated proceedings for much of the game. Olanese Saburi, Odusina Sunkanmi, and Christian Samuel all threatened from distance in the first half but were unable to find the target.

Kun Khalifat then took the lead in the 62nd minute when the referee awarded a penalty for a handball. Chinedu Sunday made no mistake from the spot, sending Olamilekan Balogun the wrong way.

The hosts had another opportunity to double their lead from the spot in the 81st minute after the referee pointed to the spot once again.

However, this time Balogun guessed right, diving to his right to keep Gateway United in the contest with a crucial save.

Just two minutes later, Babatunde Taofeek brought Gateway United level in stunning fashion, catching goalkeeper Akwuchie Obinna off his line and lofting a sensational strike from 45 meters into the net.

The drama continued into stoppage time as Nwaodu Daniel powered through the visitors’ defense and slotted a low drive past Olamilekan Balogun to restore Kun Khalifat’s lead in the 92nd minute.

But Gateway United showed their fighting spirit once more. Deep into added time, Olufemi Famuyiwa coolly feinted past two defenders before slotting home a composed finish to earn his side a well-deserved point.

The result sees Gateway United continue their push for NNL survival with a hard-earned away draw, underlining their resilience in the face of late adversity.

Gateway United head coach, Festus Allen, praised his team's resilience after grinding out a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Kun Khalifat on a difficult away ground.

"We targeted an outright win, but we earned a draw. It was a hard-fought result, and I must commend the spirited performance of my boys. They played to instructions and took their chances when they came," Allen said.

"There are lots of positives to take from the game. The level of composure shown, particularly at the death, was exemplary. My thanks go to everyone who believes in us. We will always put in our best."

Gateway United will be on a bye for Matchday 16 and will return to action against First Bank FC at the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu Ode, on Saturday, 10th May 2025.

2024/2025 NNL Match Day 15: Famuyiwa’s last-gasp strike earns Gateway United vital point in owerri

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