By Azuka Offor
The Anambra State Ministry of Power and Water Resources has defeated the Ministry of Youths and Sports in a thrilling penalty shootout during the 2026 Solution Novelty Football Tournament, following a fiercely contested encounter that ended goalless in regulation time.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Power and Water Resources, Mr Victor Ezekwo, expressed delight over the victory, describing the match as entertaining and exciting, while commending his team’s determination, resilience and fighting spirit.
The encounter, played on October 29, formed part of activities marking the 2026 Public Service Week in Anambra State. Both ministries displayed impressive skills, teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the match, but neither could find the back of the net during regulation time.
With the game ending in a stalemate, the teams proceeded to a penalty shootout to determine the winner. The contest became increasingly dramatic as both sides exhausted their available players, including female participants, before the Permanent Secretaries of the two ministries also stepped forward to take their kicks.
The tension heightened as the penalty kicks were repeated, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats until the Ministry of Power and Water Resources eventually secured victory in the closely contested encounter.
Chinedu Anuagazi, a staff member of the Water Department, emerged as the hero of the match after scoring the decisive winning goal for the Ministry of Power and Water Resources, sealing the team’s triumph.
The victory sparked excitement among the ministry’s staff and supporters, whose enthusiastic presence and vocal encouragement boosted the players’ morale throughout the encounter.
Ezekwo appreciated the staff members who turned out to support the team, acknowledging their contributions to the memorable victory. He commended the players for their resilience, teamwork and determination, noting that their performance reflected the ministry’s commitment to excellence and collective achievement.
The permanent secretary encouraged the staff to sustain the spirit of unity, solidarity and commitment as the ministry prepares for its next match in the tournament.
Azuka Offor is of the Anambra State Ministry of Information and Value Reformation
#Ministryofinformationandvaluareformation
#Informationiskey
#Solutionishere
