Kwara United head coach Ashifat Suleiman has rued his side’s missed opportunities after the Harmony Boys suffered a narrow 3–2 defeat to Barau FC in Sunday’s Nigeria Premier Football League clash at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano.
Barau FC struck first in the 20th minute when Usman Maidubji converted a retaken free-kick after the referee penalised an infringement during the initial attempt. Kwara United responded well and equalised in the 40th minute through Chibuzor Ogbodo Eze, who finished confidently in a one-on-one situation.
The hosts regained the lead three minutes later as Mohammed Umar powered home a header from a corner, giving Barau FC a 2–1 advantage at half-time.
Kwara United began the second half with renewed urgency and were rewarded when goalkeeper Johnmark Aule capitalised on a mistake from Barau’s shot-stopper to level the score once again. The introduction of Akanni Akeem, Wasiu Jimoh, Jamiu Suleiman and Afeez Musa brought further energy, with Junior Aimufua and Jimoh going close to putting Kwara United ahead.
Goalkeeper Nurudeen Badmus kept the visitors in the contest with a superb penalty save in the 64th minute, denying Barau FC a chance to stretch their lead.
However, Kwara United’s hopes were dashed in the final minute of regulation time when Stanley Oganbor rose highest to head in the winner for the home side.
Speaking after the match, Suleiman expressed frustration at his team’s failure to make the most of their chances. He said: “We were punished for not taking our chances.”
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