A solitary goal from Julius Jeremiah in the 11th minute secured Kun Khalifat FC a narrow 1-0 victory over Abubakar Bukola Saraki Ilorin Football Club (ABS Ilorin FC) in their opening match of the 2024/2025 Nigeria National League (NNL) season.

Julius Jeremiah capitalized on a defensive error by ABS defender Bala Hassan, calmly slotting the ball past goalkeeper Raphael Warrence to give the hosts an early lead. Despite dominating possession and creating multiple chances, ABS Ilorin FC failed to convert their opportunities, leaving Kun Khalifat FC to claim all three points.

The visitors controlled much of the game, but poor finishing and some resolute defending by Kun Khalifat FC kept them at bay. ABS also felt hard done by refereeing decisions, with captain Mohammed Omeizia lamenting missed penalty calls.

“I feel we had some decent penalty shouts which the referee waved away. But in all, I am proud of our performance today,” said Omeizia.

ABS Ilorin FC’s head coach, Sani Sarduana, expressed frustration but remained optimistic:
“We were the better side; we were just not lucky enough to get decent results. We will come back home, correct those lapses, and prepare for our visitors (Abakiliki FC) next week.”

ABS Ilorin FC will look to bounce back on match week two when they host Abakiliki FC on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the main bowl of the Kwara State Stadium Complex.