All is now set for the novelty match organised to usher in the governor-elect of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpeblolo and his deputy, Rt Hon Dennis Idahosa.
The organisers yesterday reeled out preparations towards the November 10th match at a press briefing in Benin City.
The spokesperson for the organiser and former Edo State Football Association Chairman, Frank Ilaboya said all is set for a top notch novelty match. “We are set for the match. Over 10 ex internationals are coming. Among those coming are Super Eagles interim Manager, Austine Eguavoen, Felix Owolabi, Mutiu Adepoju and Bright Omokaro.
Others are Samson Ozogula, Baldwin Bazuaye, Beijing Olympic Games goalkeeper, Ambrose Vanzekin, Peter Obanor, Tony Emediofu and Prince Oritsuwa Afejuku.
Ex Bendel Insurance goalkeeper, Austine Iyamu, William Enobakhare and Tony Mentie are also listed.
“From the AKPAKOMIZA side, the list is full of political heavyweights led by the Gov Elect himself, Sen Monday Okpeblolo and his deputy, Rt Hon Dennis Idahosa.
“Comrade Adams Oshiomhole will lead the others involving the State Party Chairman, Emperor Jarret Tenebe and his Secretary Lawrence Orka. Others are Pastor Ize Iyamu, Hon Matthew Uroghide and Ize Iyamu.
Gen. Cecil Eseikhaigbe, the Chairman of the state Inauguration Committee, Hon Orobosa Omo Ojo and Dr Emmanuel Paddy also made the team list.
From the rear guide, Lucky Ohimai, popularly known as TAREX will lead the duo of Earnest Afolabi, Hon Felix Aganbi and Felix Osaro to withstand the onslaught of the ex internationals.
Despite the array of ex internationals, the Chairman of All the Progressives Congress, APC in the State, Emperor Jarret Tenebe said he and his colleagues are not intimidated by the ex internationals.
“Most of us were good footballers in our youthful days, and we will prove it again come on Sunday,” Boasts the amiable Chairman.
Japan 1983 U-17 winning Coach, Amb Fanny Amun will serve as the General Team Manager while the duo of Coaches Rolanson Odeh and Monday Eguavoen will coach the AKPAKOMIZA X1 and ex internationals teams respectively.
The Novelty Match comes up at the magnificent Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City by 4pm on November 10th.