A last-minute solo effort by Olawale Emmanuel rescued Niger Tornadoes from a home defeat against Daniel Amokachi's Lobi Stars of Makurdi in game day six of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), played at the Bako Kontagora Stadium, Minna, yesterday.
Niger Tornadoes dominated the first 45 minutes with several attacks but failed to break through the resilient defense of the visitors, leaving the scoreboard goalless at halftime.
Ossy Martins capitalized on a brilliant pass from substitute Ahmadu Liman to give Lobi Stars the lead in the 60th minute, their only significant attack of the match.
Tornadoes, determined to avoid defeat, launched numerous attacks in search of an equalizer. Their persistence paid off in the 89th minute when substitute Olawale Emmanuel scored a stunning solo goal.
In his post-match reaction, Niger Tornadoes Technical Adviser, Coach Majin Mohammed, expressed concern over his players' inability to convert scoring opportunities despite their strong performance.
"We played very well, especially in the first half. We had our chances but couldn't convert them. We train for goal scoring, but in match situations, that moment of calmness to put the ball in the back of the net is always the problem. We will continue to work until we get it right, especially at home," said Coach Majin.
He emphasized that football is about results and urged fans to remain patient and not feel disappointed. He promised to continue working hard until the team achieves better results.
Lobi Stars' Technical Adviser, Daniel Amokachi, who took over the team just a week ago, appreciated the result and commended his players for their performance despite having only three days of preparation.
"My boys gave me about 80 percent of what I asked from them in the game. It's a work in progress, and getting a point in my first game is a happy moment for me," Amokachi said.
He also praised the league board for bringing stability to the league over the past three seasons, which encouraged him to return to coaching in the NPFL.
"The league board has brought a lot of sanity in the last three seasons. It is this stability that made me come back to coach again because, in the past, you train all week, and someone decides the result on match day," he explained.
Niger Tornadoes have played three home matches since returning to their traditional home, the Bako Kontagora Stadium, Minna, this season but are yet to secure a home win. They have drawn goalless with Nassarawa United in match day two and 1-1 with Bendel Insurance and Lobi Stars in match days four and six, respectively.