"We are in Ibadan to win" — Gaa Akanbi Head Coach declares ahead of Ikorodu City clash

"We are in Ibadan to win" — Gaa Akanbi Head Coach declares ahead of Ikorodu City clash

Ahead of their President Federation Cup Round of 64 clash against Ikorodu City FC in Ibadan on Tuesday, the Head Coach of Gaa Akanbi FC, Ilorin, Abolarinwa Bashir, has declared his team’s readiness to win the encounter.

Speaking with journalists on Monday after leading his team through a brief walkout session on the turf of the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, Coach Abolarinwa stated that his boys are not in Ibadan “for a jamboree.”

“Our target is to win. We didn’t come all the way from Ilorin to Ibadan for a jamboree, so we are here to win by God’s grace,” he said.

Gaa Akanbi FC came into the spotlight in the President Federation Cup following their famous victory over ABS Ilorin FC in the semi-final played at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl in Ilorin. The team won 6-5 on penalties after playing out a 1-1 draw in regulation time. The feat subsequently earned them the “giant killers” sobriquet.

Although the team recorded a 0-2 loss to Kwara United in the final of the state version of the Federation Cup, they are now poised for another upset as they square up against last year’s semi-finalists, Ikorodu City FC.

While describing Ikorodu City as a good side, Coach Abolarinwa said his boys are prepared for the challenge against the NPFL side.

“Ikorodu City is a good team with young players, and they play good football. But I am sure our boys are ready for the game. I have told my players to be determined on the field and give one hundred percent, and I believe that with determination, we will achieve our aim here,” Abolarinwa remarked.

The gaffer further called on the fans and supporters of the team to continue rallying behind them, while assuring them of a good outing from the boys.

“I want to urge our fans to continue to support us. We are known as giant killers, and we won’t disappoint them,” he concluded.

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