AITEO Cup: Semifinal defeat against Pillars hurts – Ajanah

Super Eagles defender, Chinedu Ajanah has expressed his disappointments following Katsina United’s loss
against Kano Pillars in the semi-final of the ongoing Aiteo Cup.

The game which was played at the Agege stadium Lagos, witnessed a well contested derby but it was the
Masu gida boys that took a half-time lead through a deflected shot by Lokosa.

Nzube made it 2-0 for Pillars but the Changi Boys did not let their heads down as they got back into the game through a penalty. Obiozo in goal for Pillars initially saved Timothy’s spot kick but he calmly followed up and slotted in the rebound.

That goal lifted Katsina United and they got a deserved equalizer when Ajanah rose above every other player in the box and powered in a superb header to end it 2-2 after 90 minutes.

However, Katsina lost 4-1 on penalties and that left Ajanah pained after the pulsating encounter.

“I thought we will go on to win the game after I scored against Kano Pillars but it wasn’t enough for
the victory we so required,” Ajanah told the SportingLife.ng.

“Pillars have always produced strong teams over the years and are like a traditional team in Nigeria, so we knew what to expect going into the game and our Coach prepared us for every moment.

“We matched them in every area and were confident of reaching the final but penalties can go anywhere
and it was their day. It hurts as I missed out on my first FA Cup final at this level but I will keep pushing.”

Read Also: Federation Cup final: Rangers battle Pillars

Pillars will now face Rangers International after the Enugu outfit defeated Nasarawa United 4-2 in the
other semi-final played in Kano. The final of this year’s Aiteo Cup will be played at the Stephen Keshi
Stadium, Asaba, Delta State on 24th October, 2018.