Shooting Stars Sports Club secured a 3–1 victory over Rangers International FC on March 29 at the Lekan Salami Stadium, in their Matchday 32 fixture of the Nigeria Premier Football League.
The encounter kicked off at exactly 4 p.m., with the hosts lining up in a 4-3-3 formation. Godgift started in goal, while Jamiu, Justice, Al-Ameen, and Desmond formed the defensive line. Stephen, Tijani, and Ayomabi operated in midfield, with Ismail, Lucky, and Sodiq leading the attack.
Rangers also fielded Abine George in goal. The defensive setup included Oputa Chibueze, Daniel Itodo, Iwundu Chidozie, and Ifeanyi Onyebuchi. Ikechukwu Mgbemena, Wisdom Ebirim, and Nwobodo Chidiebere anchored the midfield, while Adebayo Waheed, Godwin Obaje, and Ibrahim Yusuf spearheaded the attack.
The first half saw Shooting Stars dominate possession and create chances, but they were unable to break the deadlock as both sides went into the break level at 0–0. The hosts came out stronger in the second half and were rewarded in the 49th minute when Lucky Emmanuel found the back of the net to give them the lead.
Rangers responded in the 69th minute, drawing level to make it 1–1. However, Shooting Stars quickly regained control of the game. Desmond Ojietefian restored their lead in the 78th minute with a well-taken strike, before Adams Mustapha sealed the victory in the 88th minute to make it 3–1.
Speaking after match, the coach expressed confidence in his team’s push for a strong finish to the season, starting that God has been the source of their strength.
“It is not by our power, it is God’s doing. We will not stop praying and we believe we can win our away games to maintain this run,” he said.
With the result, Rangers drop from the top of the league table to second place, while Rivers United move into the lead. Shooting Stars climb to fifth position, with six matches remaining in the season.
