13/06/2026
NLO26:La Planet FC emerges winner of Kwara centre, secure promotional playoff ticket
La Planet FC have emerged winner of the Kwara Centre of the Nationwide League One (NLO) after defeating Abray Sports FC 4-2 on penalties in a thrilling playoff decider played on Friday at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl of the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.
The encounter ended 2-2 after regulation time, with La Planet FC holding their nerve in the ensuing penalty shootout to secure qualification for the next stage of the NLO promotional playoffs.
Following a cagey first half that ended goalless, La Planet FC broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when Mojeed Saka converted from the penalty spot. Abdulrahman Abdulsalam doubled the advantage in the 71st minute, putting La Planet firmly in control of the contest.
Abray Sports FC, however, mounted a remarkable comeback. Obadun Abdulrasheed pulled one back in the 79th minute before completing his brace seven minutes later to restore parity and send the match into a penalty shootout.
In the shootout, La Planet FC displayed greater composure, successfully converting four of their five spot-kicks, while Abray Sports FC missed two crucial penalties, handing victory and qualification to their opponents.
Speaking after the game, La Planet FC head coach, Sheriff Jimoh, commended his players for their fighting spirit and determination.
“I am very happy for my boys because they put up a good fight. We understood Abray Sports and how they play. They are a very strong side, especially in attack. I told my players to remain calm against them, and they were able to do that in the first half,” he said.
Jimoh admitted that his side lost concentration after establishing a two-goal lead, which allowed Abray Sports FC to fight their way back into the match.
“We lost concentration after going two goals up, and that was why we conceded those goals. They gained confidence and were able to equalise because of our lack of concentration. Thankfully, we were able to keep our composure in the shootout and get the win,” he added.
With the victory, La Planet FC will now represent Kwara State at the NLO Promotional Playoffs scheduled for July 2026 in Abuja, where they will battle for a place in the Nigeria National League (NNL), the country's second-tier football division.
