Shooting Stars were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw against El-Kanemi Warriors in a thrilling NPFL matchday 31 clash in Maiduguri on Thursday. Despite taking a commanding lead in the first half, the Oluyole Warriors allowed the hosts to claw their way back into the game.
Gbenga Ogunbote’s side looked to be in control after goals from Gideon Monday in the 35th minute and Sadiq Ibrahim just before half time gave them a 2-0 cushion.
However, El-Kanemi Warriors responded swiftly in the second half. A well-taken free kick just five minutes after the restart gave them a lifeline. With 12 minutes remaining, the home team completed the comeback, levelling the score to the delight of the Maiduguri crowd.
The draw means Shooting Stars remain in fourth place with 47 points from 31 matches, while El-Kanemi Warriors sit 12th with 41 points from the same number of games.
Editorial
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If ever there was a case for learning how to finish what you start, Shooting Stars’ draw in Maiduguri would be the perfect example. Two goals ahead, dominating play, and still walking away with just a point it’s a result that will feel like a loss in the Ibadan camp.
Gbenga Ogunbote’s side showed their class in the first half. Their attacking movement was sharp, their finishing clinical. But in the NPFL, games aren’t won in 45 minutes. And when you relax against a team fighting for every point, you pay the price.
El-Kanemi Warriors deserve credit for their resilience. They didn’t crumble under pressure. They regrouped at the break, got their goal early in the second half, and believed they could get something from the game. That belief proved decisive.
For Shooting Stars, the positives are clear they’re still in the top four. But to remain there, especially in a league as competitive as this, they must develop the mental toughness to close out matches. Winning titles and qualifying for the continent isn’t about playing well it’s about being ruthless.
This result should serve as a wake up call. Every point matters. And when you’re in a position to win, you can’t afford to switch off not for a moment.
Did You Know?
- Shooting Stars SC are five-time Nigerian league champions, with their last title coming in 1998.
- El-Kanemi Warriors were NPFL runners-up in 1991 and 1992, narrowly missing out on titles.
- Maiduguri, the home of El-Kanemi Warriors, was once considered a difficult location for away teams due to harsh weather and intimidating crowds.
- Gbenga Ogunbote previously led Rangers International to an NPFL title in 2016.
- The Nigeria Premier Football League’s current season is using a standard home-and-away round-robin format with 20 clubs.
