NPFL: Shooting stars get defensive boost ahead of El-Kanemi Warriors visit

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan will be bolstered by the return of two key defenders, Adeleye Aniyikaye and Gbolagade Adelowo, as they prepare to face the unbeaten El-Kanemi Warriors on Sunday at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.

After spending several weeks with the Qatari side, Alkahrabaa SC, both players have returned to Nigeria following an unsuccessful stint with the Qatari club.

Despite their initial move abroad after the 2023/2024 season, their contracts were not finalized due to issues related to the club’s recruitment policies, prompting their return to Shooting Stars.

The two defenders are no strangers to 3SC fans, having been instrumental in the club’s solid defensive display last season. Gbolagade Adelowo, in particular, had an outstanding season, setting a new record for match appearances in the Nigerian league by playing every minute of all 38 games, a remarkable feat that earned him the club’s Player of the Season award.

With the return of Aniyikaye and Adelowo, the Oluyole Warriors will be hoping to tighten their defense as they look to challenge El-Kanemi Warriors, who are currently unbeaten and sitting comfortably at the top of the league.

Shooting Stars are currently in 15th place with 12 points from 10 games and will be hoping the reinforcements can help them improve their standing in the league.

Sunday’s match promises to be an exciting encounter as 3SC aims to break El-Kanemi’s unbeaten streak and push for a stronger position in the Nigerian Professional Football League.