Swagger Returns! Shooting Stars cook Abia Warriors to go second, extend unbeaten streak

The legendary swagger of Ibadan football is fully restored as Shooting Stars FC delivered a commanding 2-0 win over Abia Warriors at the Lekan Salami Stadium on Sunday evening, vaulting the Oluyole Warriors into the second spot on the NPFL table. 

Midfielder Ayobami Junior’s first-half strike set the tone, before substitute Qamar Adegoke sealed the victory four minutes from time, extending the club's formidable five-match unbeaten run.

The much-anticipated clash, featuring two of the league’s most in-form sides, quickly turned into an exhibition of attacking intent from the hosts. Under the tactical guidance of new boss Nurudeen Aweroro, Shooting Stars (fondly called 3SC) have found a new rhythm, blending youthful energy with seasoned professionalism.

The breakthrough arrived in the 20th minute when Ayobami Junior capitalised on a well-worked move, rifling a shot past the Abia Warriors goalkeeper to ignite the home crowd. The goal was a testament to 3SC’s control of the midfield, restricting the Warriors' typically fluid attack.

The game remained tightly contested throughout the second half until Coach Aweroro’s substitution proved decisive. Qamar Adegoke, introduced off the bench, produced a moment of super-sub magic in the 86th minute, calmly slotting home to confirm the three points and the clean sheet.

This victory marks Shooting Stars' fourth win and one draw in their last five outings, a remarkable turnaround after a shaky start to the season. The Oluyole Warriors now sit in second place with the same points tally as third-placed Abia Warriors, but boast a superior goal difference. 

Crucially, they have closed the gap on leaders Nasarawa United, who suffered a defeat in Lagos, leaving only a four-point difference between the top two teams.

Abia Warriors, despite the loss, remain a formidable force, illustrating the competitive nature of the Nigeria Professional Football League. Their solid defence was breached primarily through 3SC’s high-press tactics and clinical finishing, suggesting this was a result driven by the home side's superior form rather than any significant weakness in the visitors’ setup.

The return of this "swagger" is immense for the club and the football-mad city of Ibadan. A top-two position midway through the season has raised the stakes and the belief of both players and fans. 

The win confirms Shooting Stars as genuine title contenders, injecting fresh excitement into the NPFL race. For Abia Warriors, the result is a minor setback, but their standing ensures they remain firmly in the fight for a continental slot.

Shooting Stars’ dominant display against Abia Warriors is more than just three points; it is a statement of intent. The Oluyole Warriors are flying high, and with their crucial form, the dream of a first NPFL title in decades is now very much alive.

Can 3SC maintain their form and catch Nasarawa United? Share your predictions in the comments below!