Sunshine Stars head coach Bobola Akinfolarin says the club’s long-awaited return to the Ondo State Sports Complex must mark the beginning of a new era driven by unity, belief and relentless support from the fans.
The Owena Whales host Gateway FC on Saturday in an emotional Nigeria National League fixture, their first match in Akure after spending more than two seasons away due to stadium renovations.
Akinfolarin, speaking ahead of the match, said the team’s homecoming carries deep significance and should ignite a fresh push for promotion.
“Sunshine Stars are not just another team. They are a storied club that has flown Nigeria’s flag proudly in the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup. Their pedigree is unquestionable and their rightful place is among the elite teams in Nigerian football,” he said.
The coach acknowledged the disappointment of their opening-day defeat to EDEL FC but insisted the squad is determined to respond immediately, especially with the backing of the supporters.
He described the fans as the club’s “eleventh man” and urged them to fill the stands and lift the players throughout the ninety minutes.
Akinfolarin also praised the renewed direction and stability within the club, crediting the leadership of Ondo State Football Agency Chairman Divine Ogbonnaya for instilling discipline and purpose in the team.
He further applauded the commitment of Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, whose support has been instrumental in bringing the club back to their traditional home ground.
With Sunshine Queens recently regaining promotion to the top women’s league, Akinfolarin said it is now the responsibility of everyone connected to Sunshine Stars to push the men’s team back to the Nigeria Premier Football League.
He called on fans, supporters and stakeholders to show love, offer constructive criticism and stand firmly behind the technical crew as the club begins its climb back to the top flight.
Sunshine Stars face Gateway FC at three o’clock on Saturday in what promises to be an emotional and potentially defining moment for the club’s season.
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