ABS Ilorin FC Beat FC Basira 2-0 to Secure Back-to-Back Wins

ABS Ilorin FC Beat FC Basira 2-0 to Secure Back-to-Back Wins
Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Ilorin FC continued their perfect start to the 2025/2026 Nigeria National League (NNL) campaign with a 2–0 victory over Lafia-based FC Basira on Saturday at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbow, George Innih Stadium, Ilorin, Kwara State.

Following a cagey, goalless first half, the Saraki Boys found their rhythm almost immediately after the restart. Hamzat Tajudeen opened the scoring in the 48th minute, benefiting from a brilliant attacking move that saw David Shedrack cut in from the flank to deliver a low cross, which Hamzat calmly slotted home.

ABS doubled their lead through Jamiu Sa’ad, who tapped into an empty net after Boluwatife Ajina produced a dazzling solo run, beating both a defender and the goalkeeper with pace before laying the assist.

At the opposite end, goalkeeper Shakiru Lawal proved solid once again, pulling off crucial saves to secure his second consecutive clean sheet of the season.

Sa’ad’s lively attacking display earned him the Jenik Player of the Match Award, making it two goals in two games following his strike against Sokoto United on opening day.

Speaking after the match, Head Coach Yusuf Salihu praised his players’ character and tactical discipline.

 "My players are wonderful; they play according to instructions. In the first ten minutes, I asked them to study the opponents. After that period, I tried to call them to wake up, but they couldn't, though they held on.

During the break, I pointed out the opponents' strengths and weaknesses, especially their flat backline, and instructed my attackers to go all out at them. They did, and we got the first goal early in the second half, followed by the second goal that sealed the win." — Coach Yusuf Salihu, speaking to club media.

The player of the Match Jamiu Sa’ad also shared his ambitions for the season; "I want to score at least ten goals this season and help the club secure promotion."

With back-to-back victories and no goals conceded, ABS Ilorin FC will look to maintain their strong momentum as the season progresses.

The Saraki Boys will next be on the road for their first away game of the season against Doma United of Gombe.

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