Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) FC of Ilorin have etched their name into Nigeria National League (NNL) folklore after securing a historic 1-0 away victory over Sokoto United to escape relegation on the final day of the season.
The Saraki Boys, who endured a turbulent campaign marred by poor home results, produced a performance of grit and determination in Sokoto to seal survival in what players and officials have described as “a miracle and a testimony.” The lone goal, scored in a tense Week 14 battle for survival, was enough to crown their fighting spirit and preserve their NNL status.
_“A Victory Beyond Human Explanation” – Director of Football, High Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka_
Reacting to the triumph, Director of Football, High Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka, described the result as unbelievable.
"The victory came as a surprise. It's an unbelievable miracle and a testimony beyond human understanding. I see this as a moment of joy to compensate the team’s efforts and dedication, despite struggling all through our home matches and recording bad results at home," Chukwuemeka said.
_ABS FC ILORIN HEAD COACH JOEL OGUNDEJI: “One of the Greatest Experiences of My Career”_
Interim Head Coach Joel Alade Ogundeji, who took charge at the beginning of the second round, called the survival battle one of the defining moments of his coaching career.
"The battle was so difficult despite our hard work and dedication. We struggled in most of our home matches, not because the team is bad, but due to factors beyond the narrative. I thank God for this away victory, which He used to crown all our efforts and compensate the fighting spirit of the team. To win your last away match to survive in the league is nothing but a great testimony," Ogundeji stated.
The coach gave all glory to God Almighty while commending his players for rising to the occasion. He also expressed gratitude to the management, particularly Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka, for the opportunity.
"Despite the difficulties and challenges, I promise more commitment and dedication if given a second chance. It will be an avenue to blend the team together, being familiar with the players and the system," he added.
_Tosh Michael: “Our Efforts Were Not in Vain”_
Head of Delegation and Media Officer, Tosh Michael, who created history with the team’s survival, praised the players for not disappointing the club in Sokoto.
"The match was tough; it was a battle for survival. I thank God that all our efforts were not in vain. This experience has opened our eyes more to reality, and today’s victory is a testament and another opportunity in the league to correct our mistakes, strengthen the team, and change the narrative next season by God’s grace," Michael said.
He thanked everyone who invested time and effort into the team’s survival, describing the experience as "great" and a lesson for the future.
ABS FC’s escape adds another dramatic chapter to the club’s NNL journey, after previously surviving relegation battles and restructuring under new technical leadership.
With City FC losing to Lobi Stars, ABS Ilorin FC finished sixth with 17 points and retained its NNL status for next season.
Adexinsight
Comments