Gbenga Ogunbote dreams continental return with Shooting Stars after derby win

Gbenga Ogunbote, the Technical Adviser of Shooting Stars, is confident that his team can now position themselves in continental discussions after defeating Remo Stars on Sunday.

The Oluyole Warriors secured their first derby victory over Remo Stars with two brilliant goals from Christian Pyagbara.

Remo Stars had to finish the match with 10 players after Sikiru Alimi was given a marching order for a second bookable offense.

Ogunbote, who joined Shooting Stars from the Ikenne-based side two seasons ago, also commended his players for raising their game to achieve this feat.

“When we were lower in the table, with 19 games to be played, I did say we were still on course,” Ogunbote told Nigeriafootball.ng after the match in Ibadan.

“Now, with 12 games to go, anything can happen. All we know is that it’s achievable to secure a continental ticket with the remaining games.

“It was worth the tag as a derby match, and that’s what you expect to see in a derby: tension, arguments, and a good game. In the end, I think it was worth it.”

Asked about the significance of the win over Remo Stars, which has stretched Shooting Stars’ unbeaten streak to six, Ogunbote said it’s important for his team to achieve their season’s target.

“It’s a game of the mind, and the players knew it would be a significant setback for us if we didn’t win this game, so I’m not surprised by how they approached the match.

“We also need to win all our home games and try as much as possible to secure points on the road. That is what can push us up the ladder, and as you can see, we are gradually catching up.”

Shooting Stars are now fifth on the log with 42 points from 26 matches.

They will be guests to Niger Tornadoes in Kaduna for their next match.