Ekiti United FC walked into Week 7 of the Nigeria National League Southern Conference B with confidence and clarity. Sitting proudly at the top of the table and fully aware of results from other match venues, the Ekiti State side knew exactly what was required at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena. A draw or a win against Sporting Lagos would be enough to keep them at the summit heading into the new year.
For 93 minutes, they were on course.
Holding their own in a fiercely contested top-of-the-table clash, Ekiti United battled with intensity, discipline and belief. The tempo of the game was relentless, the stakes unmistakable and the atmosphere inside the stadium electric. At 1-1 and with seconds ticking away, the visitors were moments from preserving their leadership position.
Then came the cruel twist.
A brief loss of concentration in the 90+4 minutes proved costly as Sporting Lagos struck late to snatch victory, leaving Ekiti United stunned and heartbroken at the final whistle.
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Africa Guardiola Speaks From the Heart
Visibly pained but remarkably composed, Ekiti United head coach Bolarinwa Idris, fondly known as Africa Guardiola, shared his thoughts with Ijoba Sports News after the game. Rather than dwelling on the defeat, the experienced tactician chose to spotlight the effort and commitment of his players.
“I will not say we are so disappointed,” he said. “No, because I will say kudos to the boys. It was just a few minutes’ loss of concentration that earned my opponent the winning goal. We all saw the tempo of the game. It was more than 100%; it was 120%.”
Africa Guardiola admitted that the result hurt but insisted his pride in the team outweighed the pain of defeat.
“We lost the game. As for me, I felt disappointed, but for the boys, they really tried and played the game for me. I love them more. I will go back to the drawing board and see what I can do.”
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Plans for the New Year Already Underway
With the Sporting Lagos encounter marking Ekiti United’s final match of the year, attention has now shifted to preparations for the second half of the season. Coach Bolarinwa revealed that changes are already being considered as the team looks to return stronger.
“My first plan is that I’ve played about six to seven matches, and I need to table my plans to the management,” he explained. “I need to reshuffle my team. We have only seven days’ rest. I will give them seven days to go and rest, see their parents and then come back again to restrategize.”
The message was clear. This setback will not define Ekiti United’s season.
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Strong Support From Ekiti State Government
Beyond tactics and personnel, Africa Guardiola was quick to acknowledge the unwavering support the club continues to receive from the Ekiti State Government. He reserved special praise for Governor Biodun Oyebanji and his Technical Advisor, Dr Olushola Osetoba.
“I want to appreciate the number one citizen of Ekiti State, His Excellency Governor Oyebanji,” he said. “You can see the type of kit we are using. Also the Technical Advisor to him, Dr Olushola Osetoba, we call her “O Baby”; she is our mummy. She is behind us, and I want to say kudos to them.”
A Promise to the Fans
Despite the late heartbreak in Lagos, belief remains strong inside the Ekiti United camp. Bolarinwa Idris ended his post-match comments with a promise to the supporters who have stood by the team throughout the campaign.
“We are going to make them proud because this is our chance, and we must put smiles on the faces of our supporters and fans in Ekiti State.”
For Ekiti United, the year may have ended in pain, but the dream is very much alive.
Feature Image Credit: Joshua Sunday Enitan Facebook Page
