Kwara United Football Club ended Shooting Stars’ eight-game unbeaten streak with a 2-0 victory in their rescheduled Matchday 20 clash of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Wednesday at the Rashidi Yekini main bowl, George Inih Stadium in Ilorin.
It was an intense encounter, with both teams showing quality. Kwara United, despite early pressure from the visitors, settled into the game and began to dictate play.
The Harmony Boys had an early penalty appeal when Shola AbdulRaheem was pulled down in the box, but the referee waved play on. Moments later, Kabir Muhammed delivered a dangerous cross in the 11th minute, but Wasiu Alalade couldn’t connect.
Another attempt by Junior Aimufua was well saved by Shooting Stars’ goalkeeper.
Kwara United found the breakthrough in the 21st minute when Kabir Muhammed expertly nodded home a cross from Abdullah Ojifinni, sending the home fans into celebration. The first half ended with United in control.
The second half saw Olaniyi Saheed put in a solid defensive shift alongside Segun Adekunle, Ibrahim Yahaya, and goalkeeper Nurudeen Badmus, who kept Shooting Stars at bay.
In the 57th minute, Ojifinni Abdullah doubled the lead for Kwara United, tapping in after Alalade’s shot rebounded into his path. The goal sealed a crucial victory for the Harmony Boys.
Coach Tunde Sanni made tactical substitutions, bringing on Wasiu Jimoh, Jimoh Gbadamosi, and Lawal Abayomi to see out the game.
After the match, Coach Tunde Sanni praised his players, emphasizing that the team is still a work in progress but is on the right path.
Ojifinni Abdullah won Cyteck man of the match award sponsored by Engr Ahmed Olaide with impressive display in the game .
With this victory, Kwara United now have 32 points after 23 games and move up to 8th place on the NPFL table. They will face Bayelsa United this weekend in their next fixture.
