As Ekiti United prepare to close out the first round of the Nigeria National League season with a crucial encounter against First Bank FC at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, head coach Bolarinwa Idris has reaffirmed his unshakeable belief in his team’s promotion ambition.
In the concluding part of an exclusive interview with Awijare News, the Ekiti United tactician spoke candidly about tactical adjustments, mental preparation, defensive excellence and the deep emotional bond between the team and the people of Ekiti State.
For Idris, this campaign is not just another season. It is a mission, a statement of intent and a historic opportunity to take Ekiti United into the Nigeria Premier Football League for the first time.
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Tactical Evolution and the Second Round Mindset
With promotion firmly in sight, Coach Idris confirmed that the second half of the season will come with deliberate tactical evolution, especially in away matches where margins are often tighter.
According to him, Ekiti United will introduce a new tactical formation designed to increase attacking output while maintaining their defensive solidity. Beyond shape and structure, psychology will play a major role.
He emphasized that his players must fully understand the weight of the second round, describing it as the defining phase of the season. The message to the squad is simple and relentless. Score more goals. Create more chances. Win more matches.
This renewed attacking approach, which he boldly referred to as Operation Goal, is aimed at delivering results that will put smiles on the faces of Ekiti United supporters who have stood by the team through every challenge.
Defensive Steel as the Team’s Biggest Strength
When asked which part of the squad has impressed him the most so far, Coach Idris did not hesitate.
While admitting that Ekiti United do not score many goals, he highlighted their defensive discipline as a major reason the team remains firmly in the promotion race. The defenders and defensive midfielders, he noted, have been exceptional throughout the campaign.
Their ability to limit goals conceded has been pivotal, and the coach praised their consistency, resilience and understanding of tactical instructions. For him, the backline has been nothing short of outstanding.
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Managing Defeat and Keeping Belief Alive
Away defeats are often the hardest to process in a promotion race, but Idris revealed that Ekiti United have built a strong emotional support system that keeps the team grounded and focused.
He acknowledged the role of the Technical Advisor to the Ekiti State Governor, Honourable Doctor Olushola Osetoba, who consistently reaches out after difficult moments. Her encouragement, he said, reminds him and the players that setbacks are part of football and not the end of the journey.
Coach Idris described his personal approach to motivation as deeply human. After losses, he deliberately removes sadness from his face and speaks to his players individually, reassuring them of their quality and reminding them that promotion remains within reach.
He brings himself down to their level, jokes with them, creates light moments and ensures they rest, eat and recover properly. Only after emotions settle does he return to the technical review, asking hard questions and addressing areas that must improve.
For Ekiti United, the season has been about extremes. Wins or defeats. No draws. And in every outcome, the lesson is clear. The fight continues.
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A Promise to the People of Ekiti State
As the season enters its decisive phase, Coach Idris reserved his most emotional words for the supporters.
He thanked the Governor of Ekiti State for the opportunity given to the team through the Sports and Youth Development Technical Advisor, promising that Ekiti United will continue to make the state proud.
His message was one of permanence and belief. Ekiti United, he insisted, has come to stay. Relegation, in any form, is not part of their future. The goal is upward movement, sustained progress and history-making success.
He assured supporters that their loyalty, whether in sunshine or rain, is deeply valued. Their belief fuels the team’s determination, and the dream is to end the season with celebration, recognition and a legacy written in gold.
As Ekiti United step onto the pitch against First Bank FC in Lagos, they carry more than tactics and ambition. They carry the hopes of a state, the hunger of a young club and the conviction of a coach who believes that history is waiting.
