Reaction “It was a good test for us” – every word from Gbenga Ogunbote’s press conference after Shooting Stars 2-0 Nasarawa United

Shooting Stars SC head coach, Gbenga Ogunbote, has hailed his team’s resilience after securing a 2-0 win over Nasarawa United at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, in their NPFL Matchday 21 fixture on Wednesday, January 29, 2025.

The Oluyole Warriors kicked off the second half of the season with a solid performance, earning three crucial points thanks to goals from Tijani Kabir and debutant Sadiq Ibrahim in each half. The victory extends their winning run to six matches and strengthens their push for a continental ticket.

Speaking to the press after the game, Ogunbote acknowledged the challenge posed by Nasarawa United, who are battling relegation.

Gbenga Ogunbote

“I wasn’t expecting anything less. When you’re playing against a team trying to avoid the drop, they give everything just to secure at least a point. It was a good test for us, preparing us and giving us hope as we push for a continental spot,” he said.

Ogunbote addressed the concerns over the club’s recent recruitment, having signed eight new players. He defended the move, explaining that with nine players leaving, reinforcements were necessary.

“We have 29 players in Team A, and with nine leaving, we needed to replace them. I signed seven, plus one junior professional, to minimize spending while ensuring we add value to the team. The new players will be gradually integrated, and with time, the understanding and synergy will improve,” Ogunbote explained.

The coach also acknowledged lapses in the midfield but expressed confidence that the additions would strengthen the team in the coming matches.

Shooting Stars finished fourth last season, narrowly missing out on a continental ticket. Ogunbote reiterated his ambition to guide the team to continental football, emphasizing the collective responsibility of the management, coaches, and players.

“This is the first time I’ve gone two seasons at a club without a continental ticket. Last season, we needed just one point but fell short. This season, we must manage the situation well, and if everyone plays their part, our team will be a force to reckon with,” he assured.

Shooting Stars currently boast the best winning run in the NPFL and have conceded the fewest goals in the league. Ogunbote attributed this success to consistency and fair officiating, adding that maintaining their form will be key.

“If we continue getting fair officiating like today, it will be difficult to lose games. Our next match against Plateau United will be tough because they are also fighting to avoid relegation. We must be fully prepared,” he said.

Despite the win, Ogunbote admitted that his team’s wastefulness in front of goal remains a concern.

“We could have scored more, which would have helped our goal difference. It’s something we need to keep working on. That said, Sodiq Ibrahim was playing his debut, and I’m happy for him as he scored his goal and I’m sure that will give him or enhance his confidence. So that is a plus for the team,” he noted.

With the victory, Shooting Stars now have 36 points and sit second on the log, pending Rivers United’s result. Their next challenge is an away fixture against Plateau United in Jos on Sunday.