Gateway United returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Abakaliki FC at the Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu Ode, with Timilehin Aribisala’s decisive strike just before halftime sealing the points.
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Matchday 14 of the Nigeria National League (NNL) began with intensity as Abakaliki nearly struck first, but Gateway goalkeeper Olamilekun Balogun stood tall to deny a one-on-one chance early on.
Gateway seized momentum in the 14th minute when Babatunde Taofeek calmly finished off a precise cross from Seyi Okeowo to give the home side the lead.
However, the visitors drew level just past the half-hour mark in unfortunate fashion for Gateway. Defender Olayemi Mayowa, under pressure from Okoro Chukwu’s dangerous cross, mistakenly turned the ball into his own net to make it 1-1.
Amole Mutiu came close to restoring Gateway’s lead shortly after with a powerful low effort that narrowly missed the target.
Just before the interval, Aribisala pounced on a rebound in the box, rifling home what would prove to be the match-winner.
The second half saw Gateway adopt a more controlled approach, defending solidly while looking to manage their narrow advantage.
Abakaliki pushed for a late equaliser but were kept at bay, with Olufemi Famuyiwa coming closest — his quick strike sailing just over the bar.
The crucial win ends Gateway United’s recent poor run and injects fresh belief ahead of their next challenge: a tough away fixture against Kun Khalifat in Owerri on Saturday, April 26.
