Obideyi hails Shooting Stars' historic return to continent after 27 years

Obideyi hails Shooting Stars' historic return to continent after 27 years


Nigeria Ex-International, Temitope Ademola Obideyi, has expressed immense joy and satisfaction following the historic qualification of Shooting Stars Sports Club for continental football after the club successfully secured a ticket to next season’s CAF Confederation Cup competition.

The Oluyole Warriors finished the 2025/26 Nigeria Professional Football League season in third position after the final round of fixtures, sealing a long-awaited return to the African stage.

 Although the Ibadan-based side suffered a narrow defeat away to Niger Tornadoes in Minna, results elsewhere worked in their favour to confirm their place among Nigeria's representatives on the continent.

For many football followers in Oyo State and beyond, the achievement represents more than a qualification ticket. It marks the return of one of Nigeria’s traditional football powerhouses to a stage where the club once proudly carried the hopes and colours of the state. 

After nearly three decades away from continental club football, supporters can once again look forward to hearing the name of Shooting Stars mentioned among Africa's competing clubs.

Obideyi, recently honoured as the Pillar of Sports in Oyo State, described the achievement as a product of commitment, resilience, vision, and collective effort. The former Nigerian international, who featured for clubs including Atlético Minero and Universidad Técnica de Cajamarca in Peru, commended the leadership of Hon. Taiwo Lekan-Salami and his management team for their dedication and determination in guiding the club back to the continental stage.

According to him, the club's steady growth in recent seasons reflects quality leadership and a genuine desire to restore the glory associated with the Shooting Stars brand. He noted that the progress witnessed at the club did not happen overnight but came through hard work, proper planning, sacrifice, and consistency.

Obideyi also reserved special praise for the technical crew led by Coach Nurudeen Aweroro for their discipline, tactical approach, and determination throughout the campaign. He added that the players equally deserve commendation for their resilience and commitment in pursuing the club's objectives despite the challenges of a demanding season.

He further acknowledged the immense support provided by the administration of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, as well as the contributions of key stakeholders whose efforts created an enabling atmosphere for football growth in the state.

Obideyi congratulated Hon. Taiwo Lekan-Salami, the management staff, coaching crew, players, supporters, and the entire Shooting Stars family, expressing confidence that the club's return to Africa would open a new chapter of greater achievements and renewed glory for one of Nigeria’s most respected football institutions.

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