Led by Ayobami Junior and the impactful substitute Qamar Adegoke, the Oluyole Warriors clinched a solid 2-0 victory, maintaining their unbeaten run and narrowing the gap on league leaders Nasarawa United.
Demonstrating Ibadan‘s rich football legacy, Shooting Stars FC dominated their clash with Abia Warriors at the Lekan Salami Stadium on Sunday evening. This triumph elevates the Oluyole Warriors to second place in the NPFL rankings.
Ayobami Junior broke the deadlock in the first half, setting the tempo for the game, while substitute Qamar Adegoke sealed the victory with a decisive goal in the 86th minute, extending the team’s unbeaten streak to five matches.
Shooting Stars’ Resurgence
The much-anticipated encounter between two of the league’s in-form sides quickly turned into an attacking masterclass from the home team. Under the guidance of newly appointed coach Nurudeen Aweroro, Shooting Stars (3SC) have regained their momentum, combining youthful energy with experienced leadership.
The breakthrough arrived in the 20th minute when Ayobami Junior skillfully finished a well-crafted team move, outsmarting the Abia Warriors’ goalkeeper and electrifying the home crowd. This goal underscored 3SC’s control in midfield, effectively disrupting the usually dynamic offense of their opponents.
The second half remained fiercely competitive until Coach Aweroro’s tactical substitution shifted the game’s momentum. Qamar Adegoke’s entry sparked a pivotal moment in the 86th minute, as he calmly slotted home to secure a clean sheet and all three points for the hosts.
Closing the Gap at the Top of the NPFL
This victory marks Shooting Stars’ fourth win and one draw in their last five outings, signaling a robust revival after a rocky start to the campaign. The Oluyole Warriors now sit second in the league, tied on points with third-placed Abia Warriors but boasting a superior goal difference.
Crucially, they have trimmed the deficit to league leaders Nasarawa United, who recently stumbled in Lagos, reducing the points gap to a mere four.
Although Abia Warriors suffered defeat, they remain formidable challengers, highlighting the competitive nature of the Nigeria Professional Football League. Their defense was breached primarily due to 3SC’s persistent pressure and clinical finishing, reflecting more on the home side’s superior form than any defensive lapses by the visitors.
Ibadan’s Football Renaissance
The revival of this confident and dynamic style of play is a major boost for both the club and the football enthusiasts in Ibadan. Achieving a top-two position halfway through the season has sparked renewed hope and confidence among players and fans alike.
This milestone firmly positions Shooting Stars as genuine contenders for the NPFL title, injecting fresh excitement into the championship race. Meanwhile, Abia Warriors, despite the setback, remain well-placed to vie for qualification to continental competitions.
Shooting Stars’ dominant display against Abia Warriors represents more than just three points; it signals their growing ambition. The Oluyole Warriors are on the rise, and with their current momentum, the dream of capturing the NPFL title after many years is very much alive.
Can 3SC maintain this impressive form and surpass Nasarawa United? Share your predictions and opinions in the comments below!