“I played my part”: Adeshina Gata celebrates role in Kwara United’s historic success

By Wale Mustapha

Adeshina Issa Gata has expressed pride and satisfaction after playing a key role in Kwara United’s historic victory in the 2025 President Federation Cup—marking the club’s first-ever national title.

The Harmony Boys edged past underdogs Abakaliki FC 4–3 on penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos on Saturday.

Gata, younger brother of former professional Ismaila Gata, was instrumental throughout the tournament and described the triumph as a dream come true and a major milestone in his young career.

“I played my part the way I’ve always wanted to,” he posted on his official X account. “For the first and repeated times, the sound of this victory is so loud.”

While he may not have scored in the final, Gata’s presence was vital, bringing energy and attacking flair in critical moments. His ability to press high and contribute in build-up play earned praise from fans and pundits alike.

Speaking in a phone interview with Nigeriafootball.ng, Gata said, “I told myself I wanted to give everything for the badge, and I’m glad it paid off. We knew the history at stake, and we gave it our all.”

The 21-year-old forward also highlighted the emotional impact of the win on the club’s supporters and the people of Kwara State.

“This is for every fan, every young boy dreaming in Ilorin. I hope this inspires them to believe in their dreams,” he said.

With the victory, Kwara United not only secured their first major silverware but also earned a ticket to represent Nigeria in continental competition next season.

“This is just the beginning,” Gata added. “We’ve shown that with unity, belief, and hard work, anything is possible. Kwara United has made history, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

Samuel Ahmadu

Samuel Ahmadu is a distinguished multimedia journalist and women's football expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry. He began his career at Goal.com in February 2014, where he served as an African women's football correspondent for nearly eight years. During his tenure at Goal.com, Samuel covered major events such as three Women's Africa Cup of Nations (2016, 2018, 2022) and the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada plus 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. His work at Goal.com earned him widespread acclaim, particularly for his in-depth profiles of African football stars, notably Asisat Oshoala, whose rise he documented from her early years to her breakthrough at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in 2014. Prior to his role at Goal.com, Samuel freelanced for various print and broadcast media outlets in Nigeria, including Graphics Newspaper, Radio Nigeria, Grace FM, and Savid Newspaper. His extensive experience and expertise led to his appointment to the Nigeria Football Federation's Standing Committee on Women's Football Development from 2016 to 2018. Since February 2018, Samuel has been the Social Media Manager for Nigeria's women's national teams.In 2019, Samuel joined the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as a women's football content contributor and was promoted to Women's Football Editor in 2021. His contributions to women's football continued as he worked as a Media Consultant for Content Creation and Editorials at the 2022 CAF Women's Champions League. Currently, Samuel also serves as the spokesman for the Nigeria Women Football League, further solidifying his influence and dedication to the growth of women's football in Africa.

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