Remo Stars Soar High: Ismail’s Pre-Match Mentality Propels Team to Crucial Victory over Kano Pillars
Sodiq Ismail’s clarion call for a winning mentality resonated through the Remo Stars camp, proving to be the magic ingredient in their crucial victory against Kano Pillars on matchday 34 of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL). The Sky Blue Stars dominated the encounter at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, securing a confidence-boosting 2-0 win that keeps their title dreams alive.
Ismail, a key figure in the Remo Stars midfield, emphasized the importance of a singular focus on victory in the pre-match build-up. We have to approach the game against Kano Pillars with a winning mentality on Sunday,” he declared to the media. “We must come out with the victory in the encounter.” [This quote aligns with the information you provided from Daily Post Nigeria]
His words resonated deeply with his teammates. From the opening whistle, Remo Stars displayed a relentless attacking force. Their pressing game stifled Kano Pillars’ attempts to build momentum, forcing the visitors into hurried clearances and wayward passes. The Sky Blue Stars dominated possession, carving out numerous opportunities throughout the first half.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 32nd minute. A surging run down the left flank by full-back Joshua Ajayi saw him deliver a pinpoint cross into the box. Forward Sikiru Alimi, who has been in scintillating form this season, rose majestically to meet the delivery with a powerful header that cannoned off the underside of the crossbar. The rebound fell perfectly for Ismaila Esau, who reacted quickest to knock the ball home from close range.
The jubilant Remo Stars faithful erupted in celebration, their chants echoing around the stadium. Kano Pillars responded with renewed urgency after the break, but the Remo Stars defense held firm. They displayed exceptional concentration and a commitment to tackling, thwarting any attempts by the visitors to establish a foothold in the game.
The second half continued in a similar vein, with Remo Stars dictating the tempo. Midfield maestro Ismail linked up seamlessly with his attacking colleagues, orchestrating attacks with intelligent passing and clever movement. His tireless work ethic and vision in the middle of the park were instrumental in stifling Kano Pillars’ creativity.
The pivotal moment of the second half arrived in the 72nd minute. A swift counter-attack by Remo Stars saw the ball fall to substitute David Abagna, who showed great composure to weave past two defenders before unleashing a powerful low drive that nestled into the bottom corner of the net. The Kano Pillars goalkeeper, exposed by the Remo Stars’ quick break, could only watch helplessly as the ball rippled the net.
The final whistle blew to a raucous ovation from the home crowd. Remo Stars had secured a vital victory that keeps them firmly in the title race. The win takes them to within two points of league leaders Enugu Rangers, with a game in hand.
Speaking after the match, a visibly elated Ismail praised his team’s performance. “We knew this was a crucial game, and we approached it with the right mentality,” he said. We stuck to the coach’s game plan, and everyone played their part. This is a massive win for us, and it gives us a lot of belief going forward.”
Ismail’s pre-match comments proved to be prophetic. His call for a winning mentality served as a rallying cry for the Remo Stars squad, inspiring them to deliver a dominant performance against a formidable opponent. The victory over Kano Pillars underlines Remo Stars’ title aspirations. With a crucial away fixture against Enyimba looming on the horizon, Ismail and his teammates will be determined to maintain their winning momentum and continue their push for NPFL glory.
