In an electrifying clash at the Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu Ode, Sunshine Stars FC from Akure edged out Rangers International of Enugu with a close 1-0 win, courtesy of Stephen Chukwude’s impressive 42nd minute goal. As part of the Nigeria Premier Football League’s NPFL sixth matchday, the home team displayed strong control from the outset.
Chukwude, who has previously played for both Rangers and Heartland FC, skillfully scored by sending a powerful shot into the top corner following a pass from teammate Chinedu Nwosu. Sunshine Stars had numerous chances to extend their lead, with some near misses that nearly brought them to a four-goal advantage by halftime. Yet, they successfully preserved their slim margin throughout the second half, preventing the reigning NPFL champions from levelling the score.
Head Coach Kennedy Boboye commended his team’s effort while highlighting the need for better goal conversion. It was a good game the most important thing is the three points we secured, as we take each game one at a time, he noted post match. Sunshine Stars now stand fourth in the league and are set to face Kwara United in an upcoming midweek fixture in Ilorin.
Editorial
Victories like that of Sunshine Stars over Rangers International reflect the resilience and competitiveness within the NPFL. Watching Sunshine Stars seize control and fight through missed opportunities before ultimately securing a win exemplifies what the league stands for perseverance, passion, and progress. In a game where every point counts, Coach Boboye’s message to take each game in stride highlights the focused approach that NPFL teams need to thrive.
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The game’s narrow scoreline underscores the importance of refining scoring tactics, a common challenge in many NPFL teams. Sunshine Stars’ ability to control the tempo yet miss multiple goal opportunities shows a team capable of dominating but still requiring that clinical edge to truly secure their dominance. As supporters of Nigerian football, we believe that such matches do more than boost a team’s standings they set benchmarks for what the NPFL can achieve in terms of skill, strategy, and passion.
As the NPFL season unfolds, we look forward to seeing Sunshine Stars and similar clubs not only fight for the league title but also elevate the profile of Nigerian football on larger stages.
Did You Know?
- Sunshine Stars FC was founded in 1995 and is based in Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.
- The NPFL is the highest level of club football in Nigeria, originally founded as the Nigerian Professional League in 1972.
- Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium, where Sunshine Stars plays, is located in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, and has a capacity of about 20,000 spectators.
- Rangers International, one of Nigeria’s oldest clubs, was established in 1970 and has won multiple Nigerian league titles.
- The NPFL season typically runs from September to May, with clubs competing for a spot in the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup.