The stage is set for an exhilarating final in the 2024 edition of the Bamenda III Council Inclusive Royal Football Tournament as defending champions Alahlie FC will face Mbefi FC on Sunday, August 25, 2024. Both teams demonstrated tactical brilliance to qualify for this much-anticipated showdown during the semi-final fixtures on Wednesday 21 August 2024.
Alahlie FC (L) Mbefi FC (R) mascots
In a tense semi-final match, Alahlie FC battled Nibung FC to a 0-0 draw at full time, forcing the contest into post-match penalties. Alahlie's goalkeeper Ning Che became the hero of the day by stopping a critical penalty, giving his side the lead. Awamukala Bryant then sealed the victory by scoring the decisive fifth penalty, ensuring Alahlie FC’s return to the final with a 5-3 win in the shootout.
Mbefi FC's road to the final was equally dramatic. They took the lead in their semi-final encounter in the 27th minute, but their opponents, Waterfall FC, managed to level the score just after the 90th minute, pushing the match into penalties. Both teams remained locked at 3-3 after the initial five penalty takers. However, Mbefi FC’s goalkeeper, Ajunwie Saviour, delivered the crucial save by stopping Waterfall's sixth penalty after Mbefi FC had scored their next penalty and securing a hard-fought place in the final.
As the defending champions, Alahlie FC will look to retain their crown, while Mbefi FC will be aiming to dethrone them in what promises to be an epic final. The Bamenda III Council Inclusive Royal Tournament 2024 has captivated football fans across Bamenda, and Sunday’s match is expected to be a celebration of local talent and inclusive football.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the clash at the Nibung Stadium, where both teams will battle it out for glory and the prestigious title.