Jamiu Ismail's Decisive Strike Gives ABS Ilorin Winning Start in NNL

Posted : 08 November 2026

ABS Ilorin FC began their 2026/2027 Nigeria National League (NNL) campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over arch-rivals Sokoto United, thanks to a second-half goal from substitute Jamiu Ismail.

Ismail proved to be the difference between the two sides after coming off the bench to score the decisive goal in the 70th minute at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl, George Innih Stadium, Ilorin, on Saturday.

The victory provided an encouraging start for the Saraki Boys, who had to overcome a determined Sokoto United side in a fiercely contested encounter.

Speaking after the match, ABS Ilorin head coach Festus Allen praised his players for their resilience, determination and tactical discipline. He also acknowledged the importance of the supporters' backing during the opening fixture.

Allen admitted that he had anticipated a difficult contest, particularly because of the rivalry between the two clubs and the pressure that often accompanies the first match of a league season.

The experienced tactician explained that his team had prepared for the challenge and successfully imposed its playing style to secure the important three points.

Allen was particularly delighted with Ismail's match-winning contribution, revealing that the forward had impressed the technical crew during the club's screening exercise before earning his place in the squad.

According to the coach, Ismail's creativity and ability to influence games were among the qualities that convinced the technical team to recruit him.

He explained that the attacker had demonstrated his potential during the assessment process and was expected to make a difference whenever given an opportunity.

The coach added that Ismail delivered exactly what the team expected by changing the momentum of the contest and finding the decisive goal after coming on as a substitute.

Despite the positive result, Allen acknowledged that ABS Ilorin still had areas of their performance to improve as the campaign progresses.

However, he declined to reveal the specific weaknesses, explaining that the technical crew would address the issues internally as they continue preparing the team for upcoming fixtures.

The three points give ABS Ilorin a valuable foundation as they turn their attention to next weekend's encounter against Bichi First.

Allen and his players will now aim to build on their opening-day success, maintain their momentum and strengthen their ambitions of securing promotion from the NNL.

Jamiu Ismail's Decisive Strike Gives ABS Ilorin Winning Start in NNL

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