Shooting Stars SC claimed the bragging rights in the South-West Derby, overpowering Osun United in a thrilling Group B Matchday 2 fixture of the 12th Optima Energy Gold Cup preseason tournament.
The match, held on Sunday at the FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu, saw the Oluyole Warriors deliver a football masterclass, securing a 3-1 victory.
The game started with intensity, and it didn’t take long for Shooting Stars to break the deadlock. In the sixth minute, Yaya Idris coolly finished from close range, giving 3SC an early lead and sending a clear message to their rivals. However, Osun United, known as the Omolubi Giants, quickly regrouped and responded.
Just seven minutes later, former Shooting Stars striker Ebenezer Odeyemi slotted the ball past goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal to equalize, making it 1-1.
Both teams went into halftime with the score level, but it was Shooting Stars who came out with renewed determination in the second half.
The game’s turning point came when Osun United’s Mutiu Ganiyu made a costly error, fouling Malachi Ohawume in the box just as the 3SC striker was about to convert an inviting cross.
The referee pointed to the spot, and Abubakar Aliu confidently stepped up to convert the penalty, putting Shooting Stars back in the lead.
With momentum firmly on their side, Shooting Stars sealed the victory just two minutes later. Victor Ehibe delivered the decisive blow, scoring a third goal that effectively put the match beyond Osun United’s reach.
After the match, a spokesperson for Shooting Stars praised the team’s performance, saying, “The boys showed great character today. They played with heart and discipline, and it paid off. This win is a testament to our preparations and determination to start the NPFL 2024-25 season on a high note.”
Shooting Stars’ commanding performance in this derby not only earned them three points but also established them as a formidable contender in this year’s Optima Energy Gold Cup.
