It took penalties, the better part of ten to be exact, poise and then nerves of steel to separate two of the most dominant performers in the maiden tourney as LEADCITY Gladiators outlasted a resilient FUTA Tigers 5 – 4 on penalties after a 1 – 1 draw to claim their place atop the varsity e-sports throne earlier today.

Indeed, it was one of those days when everybody knew that no side – not even one with the Tiger’s resilience and powers of durability – would find a way back. The Tigers flying the Real Madrid colours deservedly took the lead after starting like a house on fire but suffered heartbreak with the relentless Gladiators drawing level in the dying seconds to force extra time. Another 30 minutes of top-class gaming then ensued with both sides coming close on several occasions. Ultimately, it was down to penalties to separate both teams and the left boot of Angel Correa of Atletico de Madrid, the LEADCITY’s avatar to score the decisive kick. A thrilling end to a worthy finale!

FUTA Tigers can hold their heads high after a thrilling run in the competition topped off by a trouncing of UI Pioneers, pre-tournament favorites in the Semis. Truly, the past couple of days has been a thrilling exhibition of the best of gaming in the collegiate sphere and indeed the future is bright.

We can’t wait to go again as we continue to #PlayIndoors.

Full Day 5 results

FUTA Tigers (Real Madrid) 1 – 1 AET (4 – 5 pens) LEADCITY Gladiators (Atlético de Madrid) | Highlights

We can catch up on all the actions and reactions in the tournament by tuning @HiFLNigeria on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter and @GameTime TV on YouTube.