Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions Remo Stars have booked their spot in the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League after completing an emphatic 5-0 aggregate victory over Comoros side US Zilimadjou. The Sky Blue Stars, who came into the return fixture with a comfortable 4-0 first-leg advantage, sealed their progression with a narrow but decisive 1-0 win at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Abeokuta, on Friday night.
The hosts approached the game with confidence, making several changes to their starting XI to rest key players ahead of the next stage. Haruna Hadi and Adama Goita were given starting opportunities, but despite dominating possession for long spells, Remo Stars struggled to create clear chances in the first half and went into the break without a shot on target.
Their opponents, seeking an improbable comeback, showed greater attacking intent in the opening 45 minutes and forced Remo Stars goalkeeper Obassa Adeniyi into two crucial saves to keep the aggregate scoreline intact.
Second-Half Push Secures Victory
The game came alive after halftime as Daniel Ogunmodede’s men increased their tempo and looked more threatening in the final third. Substitutions proved decisive, with Michael Ibe, Samson Olasupo, and Ibrahim Shuaib injecting fresh energy into the attack.
The breakthrough arrived in the 74th minute when Zilimadjou were penalized for a handball inside the box. Alex Oyowah stepped up and converted from the spot, effectively ending the contest and confirming Remo Stars’ passage to the next round. The goal capped off a professional performance that ensured the NPFL champions progressed with their clean sheet intact across both legs.
Clash With Mamelodi Sundowns Looms
The victory sets up a highly anticipated clash against South African giants and former CAF Champions League winners Mamelodi Sundowns in the second preliminary round. The tie is expected to be a significant test for Remo Stars, as Sundowns are one of the most dominant sides on the continent with a history of deep runs in the competition.
Progression past Sundowns would secure Remo Stars a coveted place in the lucrative group stage of Africa’s premier club tournament, offering not only continental recognition but also a financial boost. The Nigerian champions will now focus on preparing for the challenge, fine-tuning their squad and strategy to match the physicality, pace, and tactical depth of the South African champions.
With their confidence high after a flawless first-round display, the Sky Blue Stars will look to continue their historic campaign and prove that they can compete with the best on the African stage. The upcoming two-legged tie promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the qualifying rounds and a true test of Remo Stars’ ambitions in continental football.
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