Honourable Taiwo Lekan Salami, the Executive Chairman of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), has issued a rallying cry ahead of their crucial Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 18 fixture against Niger Tornadoes. Speaking to the club’s media on Friday, December 19, 2025, Salami emphasized that securing three points this weekend is non-negotiable for the Ibadan-based side as they aim to climb the league standings.
The encounter, scheduled for Sunday, December 21, 2025, at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, features two teams currently deadlocked on 26 points. While Shooting Stars occupy the 7th position, Niger Tornadoes sit slightly higher in 3rd place due to a superior goal difference. Salami acknowledged the difficulty of the task but expressed confidence in his squad’s current mindset.
“The feelings around the camp is positive as everybody is enthusiastic that we are going to do well this weekend. It’s not going to be an easy game because Tornadoes are also a good side, we are going to give all we have as it’s a must win game for us.”
Historical Context and Form
The Oluyole Warriors will look to replicate their dominant home performance from last season, where they defeated the Ikon Allah Boys 3–1 in the corresponding fixture. However, the stakes are significantly higher this term:
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Shooting Stars: Entering the match following a hard-fought win at Barau FC, the team is riding a wave of local momentum under Salami’s recent administrative restructuring.
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Niger Tornadoes: The visitors have proven to be resilient on the road, recently securing a notable 2–0 away victory against Kano Pillars, making them one of the more dangerous travelers in the league.
With both teams vying for a spot in the continental qualification places, Sunday’s match is expected to be a tactical battle. A victory for Shooting Stars could propel them as high as the top four, depending on other Matchday 18 results across the federation.
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