Sunshine Stars FC of Akure began the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier League season on a winning note, defeating Kano Pillars FC 1-0 in their matchday one fixture at the Akure Township Stadium on Saturday, September 30, 2023.
The home side took the lead in the 9th minute through Emmanuel Oge, who capitalized on a mix-up in the Kano Pillars defense to slot the ball home. Sunshine Stars dominated the rest of the first half but failed to add to their lead.
Kano Pillars improved in the second half but were unable to find an equalizer. Sunshine Stars held on for a deserved victory, giving them a perfect start to the new season.
Speaking after the match, Sunshine Stars head coach Edith Agoye expressed his delight with his team’s performance.
“I’m very happy with the way my team played today,” Agoye said. “We showed great character and determination to get the win. We created a lot of chances in the first half, but we couldn’t finish them off. But we were patient and eventually got the goal we deserved.”
Kano Pillars head coach Abdulahi Maikaba was disappointed with the result, but he praised his team’s effort.
“We’re obviously disappointed with the result, but I’m proud of the way my team played,” Maikaba said. We gave it our all, but Sunshine Stars were the better team today. We’re going back to the drawing board and come back stronger in our next match.”
