Early Breakthrough

We started brightly and wasted no time in rewarding our supporters. Captain Ghali Falke set the tone with a composed volley in the 6th minute, sending the stands into early jubilation. From that moment, we dictated the pace, with Ayobami Junior pulling the strings in midfield and Promise Awosanmi going close midway through the half.

Kun Khalifat showed flashes of their own, forcing our goalkeeper Godgift Elkanah into action with a free-kick save in the 16th minute, but we remained in control heading into the break.

Doubling the Advantage

The second half began with another moment of quality, as Sodiq Ibrahim coolly slotted home in the 47th minute to double our advantage. His return to the scoresheet was met with delight from our fans, who celebrated what seemed to be a comfortable cushion.

Head Coach Nurudeen Aweroro made adjustments in the 72nd minute to keep the intensity high, introducing Monsoor Aliyu, Abiodun Adegoke, and Kabir Tijani for Adebayo Abayomi, Tunde Azeez, and Ismail Ayodele. Later, Wasiu Ganiyu replaced Sodiq Ibrahim to add more energy upfront.

However, Kun Khalifat refused to bow out quietly, pulling one back in the 76th minute to spark a nervy finish.

Holding Firm

Despite the late push from the visitors, we held firm. Ghali Falke and Gbolagade Adelowo commanded the backline, while Elkanah stayed sharp in goal.

Youngster Emmanuel Ndubueze came on for Utin Ikouwem in the 90th minute to complete our substitutions on the night.

At full time, relief and joy filled the air as we secured our first three points of the campaign, lifting spirits across Ibadan.

What’s Next

Our focus now shifts to NPFL26 Matchday 6, where we travel to Ozoro to face Warri Wolves. We’ll be looking to build on this vital win and continue our climb in the season.

Ibrahim Akindele
Media Lead
Shooting Stars Sports Club