By Taiwo Oguniyi
Kwara Nigeria – April 28, 2025
Kwara United delivered a dominant performance on Matchday 35 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), defeating Lobi Stars 4-0 at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl of the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.
The hosts got off to a sensational start as Wasiu Alalade found the back of the net just six seconds after kickoff, equaling the record he set two seasons ago against Remo Stars. The early goal sent the home crowd into raptures and left the visitors reeling.
Kwara United doubled their lead in the 11th minute through Junior Aimufua, who calmly converted a well-placed cross from Ibrahim Yahaya. Despite gaining some momentum later in the first half, Lobi Stars were unable to find a breakthrough, with Kwara United goalkeeper Suraju Ayeleso producing a series of impressive saves to preserve the two-goal cushion.
There was concern for the hosts when winger Ibrahim Yahaya was forced off due to injury and replaced by Alao Mohammed, but it did little to derail their momentum.
In the second half, the Harmony Boys maintained their dominance, though they missed several clear chances. Aimufua struck again in the 81st minute to complete his brace, effectively sealing the victory. Substitute Ismail Gatta added a fourth goal in stoppage time to cap off an emphatic win.
Coach Tunde Sanni’s tactical substitutions, including the introductions of Issa Gatta, Alalade, and Shola AbdulRaheem, added fresh impetus to the attack and overwhelmed the Lobi Stars’ defense.
Speaking after the match, Coach Sanni expressed his relief and emphasized the importance of the result. “This win is very important for us. We needed to boost our confidence ahead of our Federation Cup quarterfinal clash with Akwa United. We are ready to show them that we can avenge our NPFL loss,” he stated.
Junior Aimufua’s performance earned him the Cyteck Man of the Match award, sponsored by Engr. Ahmed Olaide.
Despite the convincing victory, Kwara United remain in 12th place on the NPFL table after 35 games. They face a stern test in their next outing, an away fixture against Enyimba International in Aba.
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