2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 37: Lucky Emmanuel fires Shooting Stars closer to continental return

Posted : 11 May 2026

Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) strengthened their push for a continental ticket with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Barau FC in a crucial 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Match Day 37 encounter at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.

In a match filled with intensity and high stakes, the Oluyole Warriors relied on a first-half strike from Lucky Emmanuel to secure maximum points and keep their top-three hopes alive heading into the final day of the season.

The decisive moment arrived in the 41st minute when Emmanuel reacted swiftly to a promising attacking move to beat the Barau FC defence and calmly slot home what eventually stood as the winning goal.

Backed by their home supporters, Shooting Stars controlled large spells of the contest, especially in the opening half, as they searched for an early breakthrough.

Barau FC, however, remained organised and difficult to break down until Emmanuel’s intervention separated both sides before halftime.

After the restart, the visitors responded with greater attacking intent in search of an equaliser, but the Ibadan side showed discipline and composure defensively to protect their narrow advantage.

The Shooting Stars backline absorbed pressure effectively while the midfield worked tirelessly to disrupt Barau’s attacking rhythm.

The victory lifts 3SC to third position on the NPFL standings with 60 points from 37 matches, placing them firmly in the race for a CAF interclub competition slot next season.

With just one fixture remaining away to Niger Tornadoes, the Oluyole Warriors know another positive result could confirm their return to continental football, either through the CAF Champions League or the CAF Confederation Cup.

At the top of the table, Enugu Rangers remain leaders with 65 points, while Rivers United occupy second place with 64 points, setting up a dramatic finale in the title race.

Meanwhile, Ikorodu City FC continue to pile pressure on Shooting Stars after moving to 58 points from 37 games. The close gap means the battle for continental qualification is expected to go down to the final whistle of the season.

This vital win ensures Shooting Stars maintain their destiny in their own hands as they approach the final matchday. The Oluyole Warriors remain focused on securing the necessary result away from home to seal their long-awaited return to the African continent.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 37: Lucky Emmanuel fires Shooting Stars closer to continental return

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