Lobi Stars of Makurdi displayed resilience and determination on Sunday, Aug. 25, as they played out a goalless draw against fellow Premier League giants, Kano Pillars, in the final Group C match of the Gusau/Ahlan Pre-season tournament at the New Jos International Stadium, Plateau State.
The 'Pride of Benue' began the match on a bright note as they dictated the pace of the game, leaving their opponents with no option but to make defensive errors and commit needless fouls that earned them multiple cautions.
In the early stages, Lobi Stars earned numerous corner kicks and free kicks as they came close to scoring on several occasions, only for fortune to elude them at crucial moments.
In the 11th minute, Ahmadu Liman unleashed a powerful shot that seemed destined for the back of the net, but the crossbar intervened, denying Lobi Stars an early lead.
Twelve minutes later, Waheed Adebayo nearly broke the deadlock with a close-range effort, but the shot lacked the power to wreak havoc as the first half ended 0-0.
Upon resumption, Lobi Stars' Head Coach, Eugene Agagbe, made strategic substitutions, introducing Alao Danbani and Ifeanyi Assurance for Ossy Martins and Ahmadu Liman, respectively.
Despite these tactical adjustments and several well-crafted goal-scoring opportunities, the Makurdi-based side could not find a way past the resolute Kano Pillars until the referee blew the final whistle.
With this result, Lobi Stars have successfully secured their place in the quarterfinals, finishing top of Group C with seven points.
Up next for the 'Pride of Benue' is another NPFL side, Niger Tornadoes, whom they will battle in one of the quarterfinal fixtures.
However, the organizers of one of the biggest pre-season tournaments in the country are yet to fix the date and time for the potentially explosive quarterfinal match.
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