ABS Ilorin FC beat Sokoto United, survive relegation in NNL

ABS Ilorin FC beat Sokoto United, survive relegation in NNL 

ABS Ilorin FC pulled off a remarkable escape from relegation with a hard-fought victory over Sokoto United in a tense final-day encounter at the Giginya Memorial Stadium.

Heading into the decisive clash, ABS Ilorin FC faced a daunting task. Sitting 7th on the log with 14 points, they needed nothing short of victory while also hoping that City FC, who occupied 6th place with 16 points, would stumble against Lobi Stars in Abuja. With survival hanging by a thread, the odds appeared stacked against the Saraki Boys.

Despite the pressure, ABS showed composure and determination from the onset. Their breakthrough came in the 28th minute in fortuitous fashion. A miscommunication in the Sokoto United defence saw a defender attempt a routine back pass, but the goalkeeper failed to deal with it, allowing the ball to roll into the net and hand ABS a priceless lead.

Buoyed by the advantage, ABS Ilorin FC maintained discipline and structure, carrying their slim lead into the halftime interval. The second half, however, was a different test altogether.

Sokoto United returned from the break with renewed urgency, throwing numbers forward in search of an equaliser. Wave after wave of attacks were launched at the ABS defence, but the visitors stood firm. The backline, marshalled with grit and resilience, absorbed the pressure and repelled every threat that came their way.

As the clock ticked down, tension gripped the encounter, but ABS Ilorin FC held their nerve to secure a crucial victory that ultimately preserved their Nigerian National League status.

It was a performance defined by courage, discipline, and a refusal to give up qualities that ensured ABS Ilorin FC lived to fight another season.

With City FC losing to Lobi Stars ABS Ilorin FC finished sixth with 17 points and retained its  NNL status for next season.