Nigeria Premier League

Shooting Stars’ Management Passes Vote of Confidence on Coach Ogunbote

Sequel to calls by some people, on the Management of the Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), to review the performance of coach Gbenga Ogunbote, the management has thrown its weight behind the widely traveled gaffer.

Reacting to the questioning of the experienced handler technical abilities, the management in a statement, said coach Ogunbote, remains one of the best tactician in the country.

“We want to state unequivocally that we are solidly behind coach Gbenga Ogunbote, whose appointment was basically based on his track records as far as coaching is concerned in Nigeria

“Over the years, coach Ogunbote has handled notable clubs in the country, and he has also recorded indelible achievements with almost all the clubs.

“Going through his records, you will agree that the soft spoken, hard working sweat merchant has paid his dues in the handling of teams in the Nigerian league.

“On two ocassions, before his third coming here, Ogunbote had been here previously on rescue missions, which he carried out successfully.

“When he handled Sunshine Stars, it is on record that he took the team to the semi final stage of both the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup I. 2010 and 2011, having led the Akure gunners to pick continental slots while the team.

“Ogunbote, had performed similar feat with the defunct Sharks of Port Harcourt, which he saved from going on relegation some years back.

“In 2018, Ogunbote led Rangers International of Enugu to lift the Federation Cup in an astonishing manner, this qualifying the team for a continental tourney after years of such feat.

“Two seasons ago, before he was appointed the head coach of our darling team, the former Lobi Stars coach shocked bookmakers by guiding Remo Stars FC to a third place finish in the NFL and ultimately ensuring the Sky Blue Stars book a continental slot for the first time in their history.

“Our decision to appoint him as the gaffer was not borne out of sentiment but on the fact that his antecedents speak volume.

“In the ongoing season, the coach has continued to put in his best to ensure we get the desired result and so far so good, we are satisfied with his efforts.

“As as at Week 22 of the ongoing season, nine points separates us and the team topping the table and with 16 matches left to be played, we are optimistic that our goal is still realistic, hence our resolve to back the sweat merchant to continue with his job.

“At this point, we want to appeal to all our supporters and fans and stakeholders in general to please, give the management and the Gbenga Ogunbote led coaching crew more support, as we are all committed to ensuring that the ultimate goal set this season is realised.

“Any move that could cause distractions to the team should be avoided, instead all hands must on the deck, we should jon hands together to make it happen”.

Nigeria Premier League

Rivers United Back To Top Spot In NPFL Title Race

Rivers United are back on top of the NPFL standings after they beat visiting Kano Pillars and closest rivals Remo Stars fell at Niger Tornadoes.

Rivers United pipped Kano Pillars courtesy of a first-half strike by Aniekeme Okon to return of the table with 29 points from 15 matches.

Remo Stars slipped to second in the standings after they lost 2-1 at Niger Tornadoes.

They have 26 points, three points behind new leaders Rivers United.

Ikorodu City and Heartland FC continued their steady climb to top reckoning after they both won at home.

Ikorodu City smashed past Akwa United 4-1 to shoot to third place on the table with 24 points.

NPFL leading scorer Anas Yusuf broke his four-match run without a goal when he scored after 45 minutes to draw Nasarawa United level at 1-1 only for ‘The Solid Miners’ to fall 3-2 at Heartland.

Heartland are now ninth on the table on 20 points.

Bayelsa United held El Kanemi Warriors to a goalless draw in Maiduguri, while Katsina United edged past Sunshine Stars 1-0 at home.

Scorenigeria

Nigeria Premier League

Ahmed Musa Donates ₦500,000 Each To Kano Pillars, Mighty Teams

According to govima.com, Nigeria’s Super Eagles Icon, Ahmed Musa, has generously donated ₦500,000 each to the players of Kano Pillars FC Under-19 team and Mighty Jets Under-19 team. This gesture was in recognition of their impressive performances in the ongoing inaugural Under-19 Youth League.

The donation followed Kano Pillars Under-19’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Mighty Jets in a highly competitive match held on Tuesday at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano. The game showcased remarkable skill and determination from both sides, highlighting the potential of Nigeria’s budding football talents.

Musa, Nigeria’s all-time leading scorer in the FIFA World Cup, personally attended the match alongside his Kano Pillars teammates. He stayed to witness the conclusion of the Youth League fixture before joining his team’s training session in preparation for their Nigeria Premier Football League Match Day 13 clash against Lobi Stars.

Known for his leadership both on and off the pitch, Musa continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration. Since rejoining Kano Pillars, he has been instrumental in the team’s performance, contributing to 95% of their goals this season. Over the weekend, he scored his fifth goal of the season, a powerful header against Heartland FC, while also providing three assists and winning three penalties for his side.

Musa’s commitment to grassroots football development was evident in this latest act of generosity, which aims to motivate young players to pursue excellence. The Under-19 Youth League, a platform designed to uncover future stars, aligns perfectly with his vision for the growth of Nigerian football.

As Kano Pillars prepare to face Lobi Stars at the Lafia City Stadium on Saturday, fans are hopeful that Musa’s leadership and stellar form will continue to drive the four-time Nigerian champions towards success.

Ahmed Musa’s unwavering dedication to supporting the sport at all levels underscores his enduring legacy in Nigerian football, making him a role model for the next generation of players. His contributions, both financial and motivational, remain unparalleled, cementing his place as a true ambassador of the game.

Nigeria Premier League

Shehu Abdullahi : The Maestro’s Midfield Magic

By Abdul A Kaugama

Shehu Abdullahi’s outstanding performance in Kano Pillars’ recent match has left fans and critics in awe. The midfielder’s clinical work and vision on the pitch prove that he’s still a force to be reckoned with in Nigerian football.

With precision passing and exceptional control, Shehu dictated the pace of the game, showcasing his mastery of the midfield.

His experience and skill were evident as he effortlessly navigated the opposition’s defense. The fans’ electrifying energy was matched only by Shehu’s infectious passion for the game.

Shehu’s resurgence is a testament to his dedication and hard work. His display of top-notch football skills is a clarion call for his return to the Super Eagles. Nigeria’s national team needs his expertise and leadership to excel on the international stage.

In conclusion, Shehu Abdullahi’s impressive form is a welcome development for Nigerian football. As he continues to dazzle fans with his midfield magic, we eagerly anticipate his next move.
May Allah continue to bless Shehu Abdullahi with strength, wisdom, and success in his football career.