Basira FC Defeats Lobi Stars 2–0 in NNL North Central Derby

Basira FC from Lafia delivered a surprising blow to Lobi Stars from Makurdi, defeating them 2–0 in their Nigeria National League (NNL) Group C Matchday 9 match held in Lafia.

Lobi Stars, under the guidance of Head Coach James Onu, found it challenging to establish their game in the second half, allowing the home team to take advantage and secure the victory.

In post-match comments, Onu showed his disappointment regarding his team's performance, pointing to a lack of focus as a factor in the loss.

“This is an unfortunate situation. We did not get it right and careless mistakes from the players have cost us two goals,” he stated.

He expressed concerns over his team's performance after halftime, saying, “Something is wrong somewhere; I cannot figure it out right now.”

Onu, who noted that this was the first defeat he had encountered since taking over the club, took full responsibility for the result.

“This is the first match I am losing here, and it’s a very sad one. It’s lack of concentration. That is all it is,” he remarked.

He described the goals they conceded as “cheap” and reassured fans that the team would work to rectify their mistakes ahead of future matches.

“For sure, this kind of result cannot happen to us again. We will go back and fix it up,” he added.

Despite the loss, Onu recognized the strength of their opponents, calling Basira FC “a good side with young and mobile players,” while affirming Lobi Stars' potential for recovery.

After a first half that ended without goals, Basira FC took the lead in the 65th minute through Aminu Yarima, who scored for the hosts. Although Lobi Stars pressed for an equalizer, Usman Usman increased the lead to 2-0 in the 75th minute, sealing the win for Basira FC.

Aminu Musa, the head coach of Basira FC, commended his players for their strong performance and discipline during the match.

“Glory be to God, we won the match. We worked for it and God gave us,” Musa expressed.

He praised his team's resilience, noting, “Our boys are a good side; they are just coming up. We had to put it in today. When we get a challenge, we challenge it.”

Elaborating on his team’s strategy, Musa mentioned, “The secret is to play where we win. That’s the only secret.”

With this victory, Basira FC improved their standing in Group C, prompting the coach to express confidence in their campaign.

“With this result, I’m going for the number one seat by the grace of God. I’m just taking my time. At the end of the day, God will answer my prayer,” he affirmed.

“I trust my officials, I trust my players. By the grace of God, they will deliver it for me.”