Lobi Stars FC    Credit: Lobi Media

Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi earned a crucial 1-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, propelling them into the semi-finals of the Gusau/Ahlan pre-season tournament.

The match, played with high intensity from the start, saw both teams aggressively searching for an early advantage.

 Ossy Martins almost broke the deadlock in the 21st minute after intercepting a poor back pass, but Niger Tornadoes’ goalkeeper Emmanuel Iwu made a superb save.

The 'Alia Boys' continued to create opportunities, with Ossy Martins and Waheed Adebayo combining well in the 26th minute, but Adebayo narrowly missed converting a brilliant cross.

Suur Kumaga also tested Iwu with a powerful shot, only to see it deflected as the first half ended scoreless.

Lobi Stars' Head Coach, Eugene Agagbe, made decisive tactical changes at the break, introducing Stanley Oganbor and Ifeanyi Assurance to add fresh momentum.

The pressure from Lobi Stars intensified, with Liman hitting the post in the 58th minute with Suur Kumaga coming close to scoring again.

The breakthrough finally came in the 85th minute when substitute Alao Danbani, after several threatening attempts, found the back of the net with a well-placed shot, sealing the victory for the Pride of Benue.

With this victory, the 'Pride of Benue' have secured their place in the semi-finals and will face North Central arch-rival, Nasarawa United, on Wednesday, August 28, 2024.

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