Coach Bisoye Henshaw of Magic Stars Football Club has boldly declared that his team’s stunning unbeaten run in the Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO) is no fluke.
The team clinched the only playoff ticket at the Legacy A center by winning seven of their nine games and drawing the remaining two — a mirror of last season’s group-stage performance.
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Speaking to Sports247 ahead of the upcoming playoffs, Henshaw emphasized that the Magic Stars have not only maintained their high standards this season but are even better prepared to make a lasting impression.
“We proved our run last year was not a fluke,” Henshaw stated. “We’re here to prove that again this season.”
He praised the improvements in league organization this year, particularly in scheduling and officiating.
“This season, the level of organization was far better than last time,” he noted. “The rest periods were better distributed. Everyone faced the same challenges. And I must commend the referees officiating has improved significantly.”
Magic Stars have continued their unbeaten streak from last season, showcasing disciplined, high-tempo football. According to Henshaw, this consistency stems from strategic planning, team unity, and an unrelenting work ethic.
“Before each season, I set an achievable goal for myself and the team,” he explained. “We push the same mentality, to believe, to work hard, and to show the world we belong at the top.”
Looking ahead to the playoffs, Henshaw expressed full confidence in his squad’s readiness to face the best teams from other zones.
“Of course, we are prepared,” he affirmed. “There’s a saying: if you want to be the best, you must beat the champions. We’re ready for that.
” Even though this is still a young team, just about four or five years together, the management has given us everything we need to succeed. There are no excuses.”
When asked about the secret behind the team’s consistent performance, Henshaw pointed to discipline, introspection, and a clear footballing philosophy.
“Hard work pays off,” he said. “As a coach, you must have a playing philosophy and instill that in your players. It’s not always about results. When you lose, don’t blame the referee look inward, understand the problem and fix it.”
He ended with a strong message to their playoff opponents:
“We’re not leaving anything to chance. We’ve worked hard to get here, and now it’s time to finish the job. We’re going all out.”
With confidence, cohesion, and an unwavering belief in their philosophy, Magic Stars FC are poised to chase glory once more and prove that last season’s success was just the beginning.
