Ogunbote Hopeful For Shooting Stars Continental Chances Despite Setback

Shooting Stars' head coach, Gbenga Ogunbote remains positive about his team's prospects of securing a spot in continental football next season despite a recent 1-0 defeat to Rivers United. This loss has impacted the Oluyole Warriors’ ambitions to clinch third place in the Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL, which would qualify them for the CAF Confederation Cup.

Currently, Shooting Stars are in fourth place with 57 points, just two points behind Remo Stars, who hold the crucial third spot. With three matches remaining in the season, Ogunbote is confident that his team can still reach their goal.

We have two home games and one away game, just like every other team. The important thing is until it is over, it is not over, Ogunbote told the club's media. We will go back home, pick our pieces, and see what we can get from the three games. Maybe we can bounce back, and that will be a good thing for us.

Stars’ upcoming fixtures include a key home match against long time rivals, Rangers, at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan on Wednesday. Ogunbote and his team will be aiming to leverage their home advantage to secure vital points in their pursuit of continental qualification.

Editorial

We find ourselves at a critical juncture in the season, and despite the setback against Rivers United, there is still hope for Shooting Stars. Ogunbote's optimism is a beacon of hope, reminding us that perseverance and resilience are key in the face of challenges. The team’s current standing reflects their hard work throughout the season, and the upcoming matches present an opportunity to reclaim their position.

Home fixtures are particularly crucial, and the upcoming match against Rangers is a must win. It’s not just about securing points but also about rebuilding confidence and demonstrating the team's strength and unity. The fans' support will be essential, creating an electrifying atmosphere that can spur the team to victory.

The importance of strategic planning and mental preparedness cannot be overstated. Ogunbote’s resolve to go back and regroup speaks to a methodical approach, one that focuses on analyzing past mistakes and forging a path forward. We believe that with the right mindset and tactical adjustments, Shooting Stars can still achieve their continental dreams.

In these final matches, every decision, every play, and every moment on the pitch will count. It’s a time for the team to show their mettle, to fight for every point, and to leave everything on the field. We stand with Ogunbote and Shooting Stars, confident that their dedication and hard work will pay off.

Did You Know?

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• Shooting Stars SC is one of the oldest football clubs in Nigeria, founded in 1950.
  
• The club has won the NPFL title five times.
  
• The Lekan Salami Stadium, where Shooting Stars play their home games, has a capacity of 25,000.
  
• The CAF Confederation Cup is the second tier club competition in African football, behind the CAF Champions League.
  
• Gbenga Ogunbote, the current coach, has previously managed several other Nigerian clubs, including Enyimba and Sunshine Stars.