2023/2024 NPFL Match Day 34: Abia Warriors see red in Ibadan as Shooting Stars run riot with goals

Posted : 03 June 2024

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Four second-half goals from Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan condemned Abia Warriors Football Club of Umuahia to their second consecutive defeat in the ongoing 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League. The match, held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, was highly anticipated, with both teams needing a win to boost their standings. The defeat has added pressure on the Abia Warriors, who are now looking to regroup and refocus for their upcoming fixtures.

The first half ended in a stalemate, with the scoreline at 0-0. Despite the relentless attacks from Shooting Stars, the visitors' defense, composed of Augustine Njoku, Prince Okorie, Collins Nwoburuoke, and Jerry Ogu, held firm. Their coordinated efforts and tactical discipline ensured that the home team could not find the back of the net. The defensive quartet showed remarkable resilience, making crucial interceptions and clearances that frustrated the Shooting Stars' forwards.

The second half started similarly to the first, with Shooting Stars applying immense pressure on the Abia Warriors. The home team increased their tempo, launching continuous assaults on the visitors' goal. The Warriors' defense, which had been steadfast in the first half, began to show signs of fatigue under the relentless pressure. The home crowd's energy seemed to fuel Shooting Stars as they pushed harder for the breakthrough.

The breakthrough for Shooting Stars came in the 71st minute when Alex Aghahowa Otakho found the net with a well-placed shot, breaking the deadlock. This goal seemed to open the floodgates, as the Abia Warriors' defense, already stretched thin, began to crumble. Just ten minutes later, Malomo Taofeek Ayodeji doubled the lead with a precise finish, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from the visitors.

The third goal came swiftly in the 84th minute, courtesy of Dumte Christian Pyagbara, who made no mistake in converting a well-delivered cross. By this time, the Abia Warriors were struggling to contain the home side's relentless attacks. The final nail in the coffin was hammered in by Adam Mustapha Agba'a in the 96th minute, sealing a comprehensive 4-0 victory for the Ibadan warlords. The dominant performance from Shooting Stars highlighted their attacking prowess and ability to capitalize on their opponents' weaknesses.

For Abia Warriors, this defeat marks their second consecutive loss, raising concerns about their form and morale. The team will need to quickly address their defensive vulnerabilities and improve their overall performance to avoid a further slide in the league standings. The coaching staff will undoubtedly be working on strategies to strengthen the team's resilience and boost their confidence ahead of their next match.

Up next for Abia Warriors is a crucial President Federation Cup match against Sokoto United in Abuja on 5th June 2024. This match presents an opportunity for the team to redeem themselves and regain some much-needed confidence. A victory in the cup match could serve as a turning point, providing a morale boost and a fresh start as they continue their campaign in the Nigeria Premier Football League. The team's supporters will be hoping for a strong response and a return to winning ways.

2023/2024 NPFL Match Day 34: Abia Warriors see red in Ibadan as Shooting Stars run riot with goals

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