Remo Stars secured their first home victory of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, defeating Warri Wolves 1-0 in a tightly contested match at their Abeokuta stadium. This win propelled them to the top of the league table after three rounds of matches. The Sky Blue Stars had previously drawn their opening home game against Rivers United, making this victory a significant boost for the team and their supporters. Samson Olasupo’s 76th-minute goal proved decisive, breaking the deadlock and sending the home crowd, including club owner Kunle Soname, into raptures. The victory was particularly sweet for Remo Stars, given the absence of their head coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, who is currently on national duty with the Super Eagles. Assistant coach Sulaimon Folarin stepped in to guide the team and maintained their unbeaten start to the season.
From the outset, Remo Stars demonstrated their attacking intent, creating numerous chances throughout the match. Captain Olamilekan Adedayo registered the first attempt on goal early in the game, while Stanley Joseph tested the Warri Wolves’ defense with a series of set-pieces. Alex Oyowah and Samuel Anakwe were particularly lively, constantly pressuring the Wolves’ backline with their energetic runs. Despite creating several promising opportunities, including Anakwe hitting the crossbar with an audacious lob, Remo Stars struggled to find the finishing touch in the first half. Warri Wolves also threatened on occasion, forcing goalkeeper Sabitu Abiola into a crucial save just before halftime to keep the score level.
The second half witnessed an even more determined Remo Stars side. Sodiq Oshidero had an excellent chance early after the restart but couldn’t convert. The introduction of substitutes Haruna Hadi and Samson Olasupo in the 54th minute proved to be a game-changer. Both players injected a fresh impetus into the Remo attack, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Hadi nearly made an immediate impact, forcing a save from Warri Wolves goalkeeper Vincent Edafe. Olasupo also came close with a curling effort that was palmed away. Their persistence finally paid off in the 76th minute, when Hadi’s clever pass found Olasupo, who calmly slotted the ball past Edafe to secure the winning goal.
Following the goal, Warri Wolves increased their attacking pressure, seeking an equalizer. They came close with a long throw that was flicked towards goal, but Joseph made a crucial clearance off the line to preserve Remo Stars’ lead. In stoppage time, Ohanu Justus attempted a long-range shot for Warri Wolves, but Abiola comfortably saved it. The final whistle brought relief and jubilation for Remo Stars, cementing their position at the top of the NPFL table with seven points from three matches.
This victory represents a crucial step in Remo Stars’ title defense. They had begun their campaign with a 2-1 away win against Kun Khalifat and a 1-1 home draw with Rivers United. The win against Warri Wolves demonstrates their ability to grind out results, even in challenging circumstances. The performance of the substitutes, particularly Hadi and Olasupo, emphasizes the strength and depth of the Remo Stars squad. Their ability to change the game from the bench will be vital as the season progresses.
For Warri Wolves, this defeat marked their first setback of the season. They had previously registered victories against Rangers International and Katsina United, placing them second in the table before the match. This loss saw them drop to fourth, overtaken by Wikki Tourist and Bayelsa United. While the defeat is undoubtedly a disappointment, Warri Wolves will look to bounce back in their next game, a home fixture against Kwara United in their temporary Ozoro stadium. Remo Stars, meanwhile, face a tough away fixture against Plateau United in Jos, providing another test of their title credentials. The NPFL season is still in its early stages, but Remo Stars’ strong start suggests they will be serious contenders for the championship.
