SHOOTING STARS END RANGERS UNBEATEN RUN IN IBADAN

The Matchday 32 clash between Shooting Stars SC and Rangers International FC lived up to expectations, delivering intensity, drama.

The Matchday 32 clash between Shooting Stars SC and Rangers International FC lived up to expectations, delivering intensity, drama, and defining moments as the Oluyole Warriors secured a commanding 3–1 victory. Our impressive unbeaten run, which stretched back to January, came to an end as we fell to a defeat in Ibadan. FAST START, MISSED CHANCES The opening exchanges were lively, with both sides showing attacking intent. However, Shooting Stars looked the more dangerous going forward. In the 6th minute, Lucky Emmanuel latched onto a long pass but saw his effort from distance drift inches wide. Just two minutes later, he nearly opened the scoring, chipping the ball over goalkeeper Abine George, only for Chidozie Iwundu to make a crucial goal-line clearance. Moments after, Ismail’s header from the resulting corner was brilliantly saved by Abine. Our best chance of the first half came just before the break when captain Chidiebere Nwobodo surged past his marker and unleashed a powerful strike, but Tijani Al Amen was well-positioned to clear. SECOND HALF: GOAL GALORE The second half brought the breakthrough. In the 49th minute, a midfield turnover proved costly for us. Ismail Ayodele delivered a dangerous ball into the box, and after a collision involving goalkeeper Abine George, Ibrahim Sodiq reacted quickest to slot home his ninth goal of the season. We responded with urgency and were rewarded in the 69th minute. A long distribution from Abine sparked a swift attacking move,Godwin Obaje set up Nwobodo, who fired home the equalizer with precision. The parity, however, was short-lived. Shooting Stars regained the lead in the 77th minute when Jamiu Hazmat’s corner was met by Desmond Ojietefian, whose powerful header found the top corner, sending the home fans into celebration. The victory was sealed late on in the 87th minute. Ayobami Junior split the Flying Antelopes' defence with a precise pass, and Adams Mustapha calmly chipped the onrushing goalkeeper to make it 3–1. AS IT STANDS The result lifts Shooting Stars SC to fifth on the table with 50 points, while we drop to second on 54 points,just one point behind league leaders Rivers United FC. UP NEXT Shooting Stars face a tough away trip to Remo Stars FC in Ikenne, while we aim to bounce back when we host Barau FC on Sunday.