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Mahanaim FC on Saturday grind out a 3-1 win over Spain FA at the Mahanaim Arena, on Burundi Street, Wuse Zone 5.

The highly intensive match brought out the best in the Hot Boys, as they had to dig deep to get the win against their resolute opponents.

The Hot Boys warmed themselves into the match properly in the second half, following a wet first 45 minutes under the rainy August weather in Abuja. Although Mahanaim FC scored the first goal in the opening 10 minutes, they however couldn't find the desired fluidity with which they normally attack a game.

Mahanaim's first goal was an own goal conceded by Spain FA's No. 5, who bundled a cross from winger Usama Shuiabu into his own net. It didn't take long before the opponents responded with their equaliser as well. Defender Anthony Destiny was unlucky to have deflected a free-kick by Spain FA's No. 17 into his own net, as the opponents tied the game.

Immediately after the restart though, Mahanaim FC changed gear and were all over the opponents as they piled a continuous pressure. Decent chances were created but the finishing touch was lacking.

Midfielder Yahaya Edoh then took the initiative to advance the forward from a deeper role, his shot found the back of the net with a stroke of luck midway into the second half, giving the boys some relief after they had piled pressure for much of the duration.

Substitute, Anaya Ope then sealed the victory with a goal from close range, after striker Okikiola Craig had beaten both the defender and goalkeeper to a loose ball in the box, before teeing up an unmarked Ope who sealed the win.

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