The reigning Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions, Remo Stars of Ikenne, endured another disappointing outing on Saturday evening, falling 3–1 to Kwara United in their Week 11 fixture at the Ilorin Township Stadium.
For a team that lost only 11 games across 38 matches last season, the Sky Blue Stars now find themselves in unfamiliar territory—losing four of their first eight matches in this season’s campaign.
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Kwara United Set the Pace Early
The Harmony Boys were electric from the first whistle, playing with confidence and control. Their sharp attacking transitions kept the visitors pinned back, and the intensity of their press reflected a side determined to send a message.
Remo Stars, though occasionally threatening on the counter, struggled to find their rhythm. The hosts capitalised on that uncertainty in the 30th minute when Junior Aimufua broke the deadlock. The forward pounced on Arinze Ogbonna’s flick from a Seun Ogunribide long throw, finishing neatly from close range to give Kwara United a 1–0 halftime advantage.
An early injury to midfielder Akanni Akeem could have unsettled the home side, but coach Ashifat Suleiman’s quick substitution — bringing in Mohammed Alao — ensured that Kwara United’s momentum remained intact.
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Kwara United Turn on the Style
The second half saw a continuation of Kwara United’s dominance. In the 75th minute, Babatunde Bright doubled the lead with a spectacular free kick that curled beyond the Remo goalkeeper and into the top corner.
As the visitors pushed for a response, spaces opened up at the back. Aimufua exploited one such gap in the 87th minute, coolly slotting home his second goal of the evening to seal a well-earned brace and a commanding 3–0 lead.
Remo Stars managed a late consolation through Jabbar Malik, whose strike in stoppage time restored a hint of pride but did little to change the narrative.
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A Tough Period for the Defending Champions
The defeat leaves Remo Stars sitting 17th on the NPFL table with eight points, though they still have three outstanding matches. The numbers tell a story of concern for coach Daniel Ogunmodede, whose side has been a model of consistency in recent seasons.
With the way their CAF Champions League ended this year—a campaign cut short by a heavy loss to Mamelodi Sundowns—the club’s current slump has left fans questioning whether the Sky Blue Stars can regain their spark.
With 30 league matches still to play, Remo Stars have time to turn things around, but the champions must rediscover their balance and belief if they hope to defend their NPFL crown.
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