Niger Tornados quest for a continental slot in the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL suffered a blimp after they narrowly lost to Shooting Stars on Matchday 18 at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.
Goals from Gbolagade Adelowo (via a penalty) and Promise Awosanmi midway through the second half secured a win for the hosts despite Kufre Ebong pulling one back late on, but it proved too little, too late to spark a comeback.
Majin Mohammed was forced into a selection headache ahead of Sunday’s clash, naming a side without five key first-team players due to various injuries.
The game began at a high tempo, with the hosts eager to impose themselves early and find an opening goal, but their efforts failed to produce a breakthrough. Niger Tornadoes gradually grew into the contest and fashioned a handful of chances. Ahmadu Liman came closest after a brilliant run into the box, only to see his effort crash into the side netting, much to his frustration.
The hosts took the lead just before the break, after Joseph Godstime mistakenly fouled an opposing player inside the area, leaving the referee with no option than point to the spot. Gbolagade Adelowo scored to put his team in front going into the half time break.
Promise Awosanmi doubled the lead for the Warriors through a well worked team effort in the 65th minute. Tornadoes introduced fresh legs in a bid to change the tides which nearly paid off but Kufre Ebong tap in through a brilliant cross from Felix Oloye in 92nd minute came a little late to mount a comeback.
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