Shooting Stars of Ibadan technical adviser Gbenga Ogunbote has expressed optimism about this side’s chances of challenging for the title, as the Nigerian Professional Football League prepares to resume for its second round of fixtures.
The Oluyole Warriors are third after the first round of fixtures with 33 points, three points off Remo Stars in first place, and are poised for a title challenge after missing out last season when they finished fourth.
“I think we do not need anybody to tell us that it is going to be a very tough second round, even though the first round was equally challenging.
Our position in the first round will surely attract a lot of challenges but we have been able to tell our players and I am sure they are aware of that too. Everything we need to do is to be on our toes, to make sure that we give in our best to ensure that we represent the team and the state very well”, Ogunbote said in an interview.
The Ibadan-based club have won their last five league matches including two vital away wins at rivals Sunshine Stars and last season’s champions Enugu Rangers, and the former Remo Stars boss was impressed by his players reaction as the league prepares to resume on the 25th of January.
“I am very happy with the turn out of the players fot today’s (Monday) resumption. Even though we are still expecting some of them but I must confess, I’m impressed with what I saw today”, he added.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
