Football returned on Valentine’s Day after the mid-season break, and we delivered a hearty performance in Awka. We’re second, two points behind Akwa UTD, one promotion spot—so every point is crucial. After a frustrating 1–1 draw with Solution FC, we did it properly at Awka Stadium, 3–0. Convincing.
Team News
Coach Jeff kept up his rotation policy, including in goal where Ebenezar got the start.
Starting XI GK: Ebenezar Defence: Solomon, Abraham, Sodiq, Hilary Midfield: Jacob, Victor, Abdulraheem Attack: Seun, Aliyu, Shola
A Patient Start
The opening 15 minutes were pretty even. Both teams were clearly feeling their way back into match rhythm after the break. Nothing frantic, just competitive football.
Solution FC had some early energy with their home crowd behind them, but gradually our midfield started to take control. Jacob and Shola in particular were winning the battles in the middle, breaking up their attacks and moving the ball forward with purpose. You could feel the goal coming.
A Striker's Relief — Right Before the Break
It arrived in the 44th minute, and you could feel the weight lift off Aliyu's shoulders.
He's been one of our most important attackers all season, but hadn't scored yet. That changed right before halftime. Seun drove down the left and whipped in a low cross. It got blocked, but fell kindly for Aliyu, who reacted quickest and poked it into an empty net.
1–0. Finally.
We went into the break ahead and firmly in control.
A Goal Worth Rewatching
The second half started with intent. Literally seconds after kickoff, Aliyu blocked a clearance from their keeper that nearly rolled in for a second.
But the real moment came in the 53rd minute — probably our best team goal of the season so far.
It started with Hilary winning the ball at the back. From there, it was just smooth: short passes, quick movement, everyone involved. The ball worked its way through the lines until Jacob picked it up in midfield and released Aliyu wide. He rounded the keeper and finished calmly.
2–0.
Sealed With Authority
Once we had that cushion, the game opened up for us. We were comfortable, confident, and started playing some really good stuff.
Seun caught the keeper off his line and capped off a strong performance with the third goal, finishing well to put the game completely beyond reach.
3–0. Job done.
Standout Performers
A few players really stood out:
Jacob — ran the midfield, controlled the tempo, and set up the second goal with a perfect pass.
Shola — his movement and link-up play caused them problems all game.
Aliyu — two goals and an assist to Seun… worked his socks off. Deserved that breakthrough.
Matchday Notes
Chidera came off the bench and faced his former club — he played for Solution FC last season.
This is our second away win of the season, which is the first time Sporting Lagos has won twice away from home in a single campaign.
It's also the biggest away win in the club's history.
What's Next
We're back at it on February 23 when we host Godswill Akpabio. Another home fixture, another chance to keep the pressure on Akwa United at the top. Tickets are free. Get them here.
