Future Pride FC secured a narrow 1-0 victory against MM Tigers Academy in a tense tournament encounter held at Glenview High 2 on 18 January 2025. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, with a small crowd of ten spectators witnessing a hard-fought battle that ultimately saw Future Pride FC emerge victorious.
Future Pride FC lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking flair. Nigel Beston took his place between the sticks, shielded by a back four consisting of Joseph Kunjawa and Onismo Tapera as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Kudzi Adrian and Zerro Error forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, Solomon Kunjawa operated on the right, Bincho B in the centre, and Man Kudu on the left, tasked with linking play and supporting the forwards. Up front, Dhola Arty and Benson Soza occupied the wide positions, while Parto Parto led the line as the central striker.
The substitutes for Future Pride FC included Kim Kimberly, Shosho Sean, Lovejoy Love, and Might Gambe, who would be called upon later in the match as tactical adjustments were made.
The opening goal came in the 15th minute when Dhola Arty capitalised on a defensive mistake from MM Tigers Academy, scoring from close range after receiving a long pass from Man Kudu. This early strike set the tone for the match, as Future Pride FC looked to build on their lead.
However, the next few minutes saw a series of mistakes from Future Pride FC players. Kudzi Adrian's poor concentration in the 18th minute went unpunished, while a dissent foul from Solomon Kunjawa followed shortly after, demonstrating the mounting pressure on the team. Adrian was again involved, committing a push in the 22nd minute, but fortunately, it did not result in a penalty.
As the first half progressed, Zerro Error made a misplaced pass in the 24th minute, and Onismo Tapera misjudged a situation shortly after, both errors highlighting the need for greater composure. Parto Parto also struggled with concentration, missing a chance in the 31st minute, and later firing wide just before half-time.
The half-time whistle blew with Future Pride FC leading 1-0, but not without a tactical reshuffle. Three substitutions were made at the break, with Shosho Sean replacing Bincho B, Lovejoy Love coming on for Onismo Tapera, and Kim Kimberly taking the place of Joseph Kunjawa. These changes aimed to inject fresh energy into the side.
The second half began with a foul from Zerro Error in the 49th minute, followed by an interception from goalkeeper Nigel Beston, who showcased his alertness. Dhola Arty continued to be a threat, attempting a shot that was saved in the 53rd minute, while Benson Soza also tested the MM Tigers Academy goalkeeper shortly after.
Solomon Kunjawa's late tackle in the 55th minute added to the physicality of the match, but no penalties were conceded. Tactical changes continued as Might Gambe replaced Benson Soza in the 61st minute, aiming to bolster the attack.
As the match wore on, Kudzi Adrian's misjudgement in the 73rd minute was another reminder of the need for focus. Shosho Sean had a chance in the 78th minute but shot high, while Lovejoy Love and Solomon Kunjawa both committed fouls in the closing stages, reflecting the increasing tension.
In the 85th minute, Solomon Kunjawa made a key pass, attempting to unlock the MM Tigers Academy defence as the match approached its conclusion. Despite the late pressure from the opposition, Future Pride FC held firm to secure the victory, with Dhola Arty's goal proving decisive.
The referee, Honest Natoe, faced scrutiny for his performance, which was rated poorly, but ultimately, Future Pride FC's resilience and tactical discipline saw them through to a well-deserved win. Dhola Arty was rightly named Player of the Match for his crucial goal and overall contribution to the team's success.
