In a thrilling semi-final of the Optima Energy Gold Cup Preseason Tournament, Shooting Stars secured a narrow victory against Benin Premier League side, Association Sportive de la Vallée de l’Ouémé (ASVO) FC, despite being reduced to ten men. The win sets up an epic final clash with defending champions Beyond Limits. Key to Shooting Stars’ success was the outstanding performance of Aliyu Abubakar, who was named the Darajeph Technologies Player of the Match.
After the match, Aliyu Abubakar opened up to Futball Naija about his journey through the tournament, his transition to Shooting Stars, and his ambitions for the upcoming my season.
“I was very, very happy to win the Man of the Match award,” Abubakar said, expressing his joy and pride. “When you play a match and win an award, it shows you are working hard, so I feel very good.”
Abubakar credited the Optima Energy Gold Cup Preseason Tournament for significantly improving both his individual game and the cohesion of the team. “The tournament has really helped improve my game and the team too, because there are a lot of new players. We’re learning how to know each other, and this tournament helps us understand ourselves better. Since the beginning of the Optima Energy Gold Cup Preseason Tournament, I have improved a lot.”
Having joined Shooting Stars from Lobi Stars last season, Abubakar spoke about his ongoing adjustment to his new club. “It’s a new place for me, and I’ve been trying to get to know the players, the management, and the fans. I’m also adapting to the weather, and so far so good, I’m settling in well. I can say, Shooting Stars is a well-organized team, and I think coming here is good for me. I’ve made the right decision to come here.”
In the second half of the semi-final match against ASVO FC, Abubakar was moved from midfield to the left wing after Shooting Stars were reduced to ten men following Anthony Okachi’s misconduct. Despite the shift, Abubakar excelled in his new position. “Yes, I have played in different midfield positions, even on the wings,” he noted. “I’ve played under different coaches with different formations, and I’ve even been drafted out of position when a player is injured or suspended. I’m used to it, and I always have it at the back of my mind before any match that anything can happen, so I’m always ready for any eventuality.”
Abubakar also praised the organizers of the Optima Energy Gold Cup Preseason Tournament, describing it as highly competitive and well-run. “The organizers did a great job, and the tourney is very competitive. I rate this competition 10/10 because it’s very tough and challenging. I’ve played in many competitions, but this one is very competitive and well-organized. I’m really enjoying it. It’s so amazing.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season, Abubakar has set his sights on the top prize. “My goal for the upcoming season is to win the league, to finish first at the end of the season. Secondly, I want to perform very well and I’ve tasked myself to do so. By God’s grace, with the help of my teammates, we will lift the trophy this season. I really want to do well and finish this season with a lot of goals; this is my target.”
As Shooting Stars prepare for the final against Beyond Limits, all eyes will be on Aminu Abubakar, whose stellar form in the Optima Energy Gold Cup Preseason Tournament has set high expectations for the season ahead.
