From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Kwara United delivered one of their best performances of the season, dismantling Lobi Stars of Makurdi, with a 4-0 victory in a thrilling NPFL Matchday 35 encounter, at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl of the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.
Harmony Boys striker, Wasiu Alalade, set the tone for the day with a lightning-fast goal just six seconds after kickoff, equaling a record he first achieved two seasons ago against Remo Stars. The early goal electrified the home fans and left the visitors stunned.
Barely 11 minutes later, Junior Aimufua extended Kwara United’s lead with a clinical finish from an Ibrahim Yahaya cross, putting the hosts firmly in control.
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Though Lobi Stars began to find their rhythm as the first half progressed, Kwara United’s goalkeeper, Suraju Ayeleso, pulled off key saves to maintain the two-goal cushion going into the break. The team, however, suffered a minor setback when influential winger, Ibrahim Yahaya, was forced off with an injury and replaced by Alao Mohammed.
The second half saw Kwara United pressing harder despite missing several chances. Junior Aimufua, eventually completed his brace in the 81st minute, calmly slotting home to send the fans into wild celebrations. Ismail Gatta rounded off the victory with a fourth goal right at the stroke of full time, capping a dominant display.
Coach Tunde Sanni’s timely substitutions, introducing Issa Gatta, Wasiu Alalade, and Shola AbdulRaheem, gave Kwara United an extra edge in attack, overwhelming Lobi Stars’ defence in the closing stages.
Speaking after the match, Coach Sanni breathed a sigh of relief, admitting that the team had been under intense pressure before the game.
“This win is very important for us. We needed to boost our confidence ahead of our Federation Cup quarterfinal clash with Akwa United. It’s time to show Akwa that we are ready to avenge our NPFL loss,” Sanni said.
Junior Aimufua’s brilliant display earned him the Cyteck Man of the Match award, sponsored by Engr. Ahmed Olaide.
Despite the emphatic win, Kwara United remain 12th on the NPFL table after 35 games. Their next test will be a tough away trip to face Enyimba International in Aba.
