Two penalties, a missed one late on, and a spirited fightback from the newcomers made for a nervy opening day win in Ibadan.
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Shooting Stars began their 2026/27 NPFL campaign with a 2-1 win over newly promoted Inter Lagos at home in Ibadan.
The hosts made a bright start, putting Inter Lagos under sustained pressure in the opening exchanges. Their dominance was rewarded in the 14th minute when Lucky Emmanuel found the net to give Shooting Stars the lead.
A Response, Then A Penalty
Inter Lagos responded strongly, drawing level nine minutes later through Adigun Damilare, who finished off a fine delivery into the box. Shooting Stars regained the lead in first half stoppage time when Sodiq Ibrahim calmly converted from the penalty spot.
The contest became more evenly balanced after the break, with both sides creating chances to add to the scoreline. Shooting Stars had the opportunity to put the game beyond Inter Lagos in stoppage time, but Mustapha Adams saw his second penalty of the match saved. The Oluyole Warriors held on regardless to secure all three points in the season opener.
A Winning Start Under New Leadership
The result gives new head coach Salisu Yusuf a winning start to his tenure, following his appointment after Nurudeen Aweroro’s exit earlier this month. The rest of the matchday one fixtures across the league are scheduled to take place on Sunday.
