Remo Stars continued their impressive run at the top of the Nigeria Premier Football League table with a convincing 2-0 victory over Shooting Stars at the Remo Stars Stadium on Friday evening. The win keeps the Ikenne-based side at the summit and sends a strong message to their title rivals that they are the team to beat this season.
Coach Daniel Ogunmodede praised the team’s discipline and hard work after the match.
“The boys showed maturity today. We controlled the game from start to finish and the two goals were well deserved. This is a difficult league and every point matters. We are not getting carried away but we are happy with where we are,” Ogunmodede said in the post-match press conference.
The first goal came in the 28th minute through a well-worked team move finished by the in-form striker, while the second was a clinical counter-attack in the 72nd minute. Shooting Stars, who came into the game with high expectations, struggled to create clear chances and looked frustrated for long periods.
Fans in Ikenne went wild after the final whistle, with many chanting “We are champions” as the players did a lap of honour. Social media was flooded with messages of support. One Remo Stars supporter wrote: “This team is different. The hunger is there. Title is ours this year.” Another fan added: “Ogunmodede has built something special here. From mid-table to title contenders in one season – respect!”
League analysts believe Remo Stars now have the squad depth and tactical discipline to go all the way. With the January transfer window still open, the club is expected to make one or two more signings to strengthen the attack and defence. Remo Stars are currently three points clear at the top and have a game in hand over some of their closest challengers.
Shooting Stars coach expressed disappointment but admitted Remo Stars were the better side on the day.
“We need to go back to the drawing board and fix our attacking problems. Congratulations to Remo Stars,” he said.
The victory takes Remo Stars’ unbeaten run to eight games and keeps the title race very much alive. Nigerian football fans are already looking forward to the next round of matches to see if the Ikenne side can maintain their momentum.
