The Nigeria Premier Football League returns this weekend for Matchday 9, and all roads lead to the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, where we, Shooting Stars Sports Club, will host Abia Warriors in what promises to be a thrilling contest.
This Sunday’s encounter brings together two in-form sides determined to keep their strong start to the season going. Abia Warriors currently sit second on the table, while we stand fifth, both teams hungry for maximum points to strengthen their top-half ambitions.
We come into this fixture full of confidence after securing a hard-fought 1–1 draw away to Kano Pillars, courtesy of a dramatic 94th-minute equalizer. That result once again highlighted the fighting spirit and resilience of the Oluyole Warriors.
At home, we’ve been dominant, powered by the passion of our loyal fans who continue to fill Adamasingba with unmatched energy every matchday. Coach Nurudeen Aweroro will be looking to see that energy reflected on the pitch as we aim to turn control and possession into more goals.
Abia Warriors arrive in Ibadan on the back of a 2–0 win over El-Kanemi Warriors. Their quick counter-attacking approach has earned them impressive results, but they’ve shown some vulnerability away from home, something we’ll be ready to capitalize on.
We have no major injury concerns ahead of this clash. Alex Aghahowa and Desmond Ojietefian are close to returning to full fitness and could be available soon. Supporters will also be eager to see whether Austin Onyemaechi will make his long-awaited debut, depending on the coach’s final decision.
In goal, Mustapha Lawal is set to maintain his starting spot after consistent performances. Ghali Falke and Ikouwem Utin will look to provide solidity at the back, while Ayobami Junior will continue to dictate play from midfield.
Up front, Sodiq Ibrahim is expected to lead the line with his usual determination, supported by Promise Awosanmi, while Ismail Ayodele and Agba’a Mustapha offer width and attacking depth. Al-Ameen also remains one of our key contributors on both ends of the pitch.
For the visitors, former Shooting Stars goalkeeper Okiemute Odah returns to Adamasingba for what should be an emotional reunion. Midfielder Fatai Abdullahi brings stability to their play, while Sunday Megwo and Kunle Adeleke provide attacking spark. Their forward duo, Suraj Lawal and Chukwuemeka Obioma, will be looking to test our defense, but we’re ready for the challenge.
We’ll be sticking to our identity, controlling possession, creating from the wings, and maintaining tactical discipline. The focus remains on staying patient, taking charge of the midfield, and making the most of key attacking moments.
Abia Warriors are likely to defend compactly and play on the counter, but with the backing of our fans and our home advantage, we’re confident of taking control and getting the job done.
A win on Sunday will be a huge boost, one that keeps us climbing towards the top of the NPFL table and strengthens the belief in our camp as the season continues.
Venue: Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan
Date: Sunday, October 19, 2025
Kick-off Time: 4:00 PM
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