Lobi Stars U-19 carved out a 2-1 victory over Golden Boys of Abinsi in a thrilling friendly clash at McCarthy Stadium.
The game swung on crucial moments, with goalkeeper Aondona Gbamwuam keeping his side alive through three key saves despite shaky defensive lapses. Early on, Daniel Onu’s header rattled the crossbar, while forward Benjamin Ishaya missed a golden chance to give the visitors the lead.
The breakthrough came when Moses Kuku was brought down in the area, allowing Onu to calmly slot home from the penalty spot. Kuku then turned scorer on the stroke of half-time, heading home to make it 2-0.
Golden Boys responded after the break through Yohana Dauda’s precise strike, which Gbamwuam couldn’t stop. They pressed hard for an equaliser, but Jacob Detso’s late penalty soared over the bar, leaving Lobi Stars to cling on for the win.
Coach Stephen Waghbo hailed his players afterwards, saying “Despite an early start, the lads showed great teamwork and coordination, dominating play and securing a well-deserved win. We’re proud of their progress and will continue to guide them positively.”
The U-19 side will keep sharpening their tactics with further friendlies as they gear up for the championship playoff.
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Editorial
We see this match as a reflection of what youth football should be about resilience, growth, and seizing key opportunities. Lobi Stars U-19 did not have everything their own way defensive frailties were visible, chances were missed, and the pressure was intense. Yet, the young side showed the character to strike when it mattered and defend their lead with determination.
The standout contributions from Moses Kuku and Daniel Onu highlight a team brimming with attacking potential. Equally, Gbamwuam’s saves underline how vital individual brilliance can be in holding a collective together. These are the kinds of lessons that will serve these players beyond youth football.
What excites us most is the philosophy espoused by Coach Waghbo. His words reflect not just pride, but purpose. He recognises this is a journey—each match is not an end, but a building block. That approach ensures players develop not only skills, but mental strength and tactical awareness.
If nurtured correctly, this group could produce names that Nigerian football fans will one day cheer at senior level. For now, their win over Golden Boys is more than a result it’s a promising step on a path worth following.
Did You Know?
- Lobi Stars FC, the parent club of the U-19s, were founded in 1981 and originally called Hawks of Makurdi before their rebranding.
- The club’s home ground, Aper Aku Stadium, has a capacity of 15,000 and is one of the most vibrant football venues in Benue State.
- Lobi Stars are one of only a handful of Nigerian clubs to have played in the CAF Champions League group stages, achieving this in 2000 and 2019.
- Youth teams like the U-19s are key to Lobi’s identity, with several senior players in the NPFL having graduated from their academy setup.
- In the 2018 NPFL season, Lobi Stars emerged as league champions, securing Nigeria’s sole ticket to the CAF Champions League that year.
