GA Cup: Remo Stars crash out after painful penalty defeat to MLSNEXT side

GA Cup: Remo Stars crash out after painful penalty defeat to MLSNEXT side

Izuchukwu Akawor 06:03 - 06.04.2023

Remo Stars Academy failed to make it beyond the first knockout round at the Generation Adidas Cup, GA Cup.

Nigeria’s representatives at the Generation Adidas Cup, GA Cup, Remo Stars Academy, Beyond Limits, have failed to make it beyond the first knockout stage of the competition.

Beyond Limits suffered their second defeat of the tournament following a 4-1 penalty shootout defeat to MLSNEXT team, Philadelphia Union on Thursday night.

The game between the No Limits and Philadelphia ended goalless after regulation time with the MLS side going on to win on penalties to progress to the quarterfinals.

The Remo Stars defeat in brief

Remo Stars started on the front foot and dominated of the game against their MLSNEXT hosts, Philadelphia.

But despite several good chances through Kparobo Arierhi and Muyideen Olude, both sides failed to create any meaningful opportunities in the game in the opening 45 minutes.

GA Cup: Philadelphia Union vs Remo Stars
Muyideen Olude came close for Remo Stars vs Union.

An improved second half from the No Limits also failed to produce any goals as the game would be decided via a penalty shootout.

In the shootout, the Remo boys missed two of their first three kicks while Philadelphia scored their first four to seal the win and advance to the last eight.

A learning curve

Despite seeing their MLSNEXT tour come to an end following the painful defeat to Philadelphia Union, the Remo boys can be proud of their outing in the US.

A brilliant start to the GA Cup saw Beyond Limits make it from Group 8 as the second-best team.

They won two and lost one of their three group games, scoring four goals and conceding two to book a place in the next round.

GA Cup: Remo Stars academy, Beyond Limits
Beyond Limits stars celebrate the win against Timbers.

However, they failed to make it beyond the first round of the survive and advance stage following a second penalty loss.

But while their journey has come to an end, there are no limits to what they can take back home with them in terms of experience.

Their manager, Ajibolade Olumide, believes that the opportunity for him and his boys to rub shoulders with some of the best clubs in the world has been a priceless experience.

Remo Stars' Beyond Limits win at MLS NEXT
Coach Ajibolade and his Beyond Limits have had a priceless time in the Generation Adidas Cup in USA Beyond Limits claim first three points at MLS NEXT.

Olumide has been a happy man watching his 14-year-olds have the time of their lives evolving in the same space with top clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, and Real Madrid at the MLS NEXT.

He told Pulse Sports Nigeria this much from God’s own country where he and his No Limits boys have been taking part in the famous Generation Adidas Cup tournament.

In an exclusive chat with Pulse Sports Nigeria, coach Olumide stated that his No Limits boys have enjoyed a priceless time in the MLS NEXT.

GA Cup: Remo Stars
Beyond Limits in the USA ahead of Generation Adidas Cup

According to the tactician regarded as one of the best in the country, the opportunity to rub shoulders with European giants like Manchester United, Arsenal, and Real Madrid amongst others has been priceless.

Speaking on the invaluable lessons from the MLS NEXT, so far, the gaffer, who is the holder of a UEFA C license and MBP certified, had this to say;

“It’s not TCC level of competition, it’s a different level of organization, physicality, pressure, and demands a big mentality. Dealing with an inferiority complex, and challenging their fears. It’s a lot and a priceless opportunity.”

The No Limits competed in the U-17 category of the competition for the first time and made it to the first knockout stage.

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