For weeks, Shooting Stars fans watched helplessly as their team struggled, unable to secure at least a win in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Each match brought more frustration, with hope fading fast. But on Sunday, at the Lekan Salami Stadium, something changed, Footballrover reports.
A determined 3-1 victory over Niger Tornadoes finally ended a painful seven-game streak without a win.
Coach Gbenga Ogunbote couldn’t hide his emotions, calling it a “big relief”. But can this victory spark a real turnaround?
Shooting Stars end 7-game curse in dominant fashion
The Oluyole Warriors had endured a rough patch, losing twice, drawing three times, and suffering two more defeats in their last seven outings.
But against Niger Tornadoes, the Ogunbote Warriors came out fighting.
Samuel Bamidele started the party in the 38th minute when he smashed in the opening goal for the hosts.
Just before the halftime whistle, Anthony Okachi calmly converted a penalty, sending the home fans into excitement as Shooting Stars headed into the break with a 2-0 advantage.
The visitors tried to mount a comeback when Sunday Williams pulled one back early in the second half.
However, their hosts refused to let their lead slip away this time.
Samuel Okon delivered the final blow, restoring the two-goal cushion in the 66th minute to seal a much-needed victory.
Ogunbote: ‘A big relief’ as his Warriors look ahead
After the final whistle, Ogunbote couldn’t hide his relief.
The experienced coach admitted that the pressure had been immense but praised his players for finally breaking free from their slump.
“I think it is a big relief for me and the boys. Honestly, you can see that we have a team that can withstand any opponent,” he said as quoted by the club’s media.
Despite their struggles, Ogunbote remains optimistic about their target—securing a continental ticket.
With eight games left in the season, the gaffer insists they must keep pushing.
“We still have eight games to go, and we will continue to give our best. Until the season ends, nobody knows what will happen,” he added.
With renewed confidence, Shooting Stars now shift their focus to their next fixture against El-Kanemi Warriors, hoping to build on this momentum.
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