Osun United reignited their promotion campaign with a commanding 2-0 win over FC in a Matchday 16 clash of the Nigeria National League (NNL) at the Lanreleke Sports Complex in Ile-Ogbo. The victory snapped a disappointing run of form and restored belief among the Gladiators' faithful.
The breakthrough came early in the 20th minute when Samuel Udor kept his composure to slot home and put the hosts ahead. Osun United dominated possession throughout the half and nearly doubled their lead when Naheem Odugbemi struck the woodwork in what would have been a contender for goal of the season.
bet9ja.com
The hosts continued to press in the second half but had to wait until the 79th minute to secure the win. Substitute Shittu Jeffrey delivered a precise aerial pass that found Odugbemi, who made no mistake with a brilliantly executed volley to seal the victory and ignite celebrations among the home fans.
With the win, Osun United remain second on the league table with 27 points, keeping their promotion dream alive. Head coach Seye Ajayi hailed his side’s resilience, saying, "This victory will undoubtedly boost our morale. We’ll use this momentum heading into the crucial fixtures ahead."
bet9ja.com
The Gladiators now prepare for a key away match against ABS FC in Ilorin, with renewed confidence and belief in their push for top-flight football.
Editorial
Momentum is everything in the Nigeria National League, and Osun United seem to have found theirs just in time. The victory over Godswill Akpabio FC wasn’t just about three points it was a statement. After weeks of inconsistency, the Gladiators delivered a performance that rekindled hope and brought back the roar to Ile-Ogbo.
What stands out most is not the scoreline, but the manner of victory. From the early confidence shown by Udor’s opener to Odugbemi’s sublime finish, this was a team playing with clarity and purpose. Credit must go to coach Seye Ajayi, who has kept belief alive in his squad even when the results weren’t kind.
bet9ja.com
Promotion campaigns are built on results like these. Osun United now sit in second place, well within reach of achieving their ambitions. But beyond the tactics and goals, what fuels this team is spirit—a fighting edge that was clear in every challenge and pass against Akpabio FC.
The next step is crucial. A tricky away trip to Ilorin against ABS FC awaits, and this is where consistency will be tested. If they carry this energy forward, Osun United could soon find themselves knocking on the door of the Nigeria Premier Football League.
Did You Know?
Osun United was formerly known as Prime FC before undergoing a rebranding in 2016 to strengthen local identity.
The Lanreleke Sports Complex, their current home ground, was renovated in 2022 to meet NNL [match standards](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/youth-football/).
Samuel Udor, scorer of the first goal, previously played as a winger before converting to a central striker.
The club’s nickname "The Gladiators" reflects their early history of gritty, defensive football during their time in the lower divisions.
Osun United have never played in the top tier of Nigerian football, but they came close in the 2017/2018 season before narrowly missing promotion.