Jamiu Saadu emerged the hero as Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Ilorin FC began their 2025/2026 Nigeria National League (NNL) campaign on a winning note, sealing a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Sokoto United on Saturday at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl, George Innih Stadium, Ilorin, Kwara State.
The fixture proved intense from the onset, with ABS reduced to 10 men in the 38th minute after midfielder Ayokun Abdulrahman was sent off for two bookable offences.
Read Also: B-E-W-A-R-E ! DR Congo Leopards Who Could Harm Super Eagles in CAF Play-Off Final
Despite the setback, the Saraki Boys maintained control and came close to taking the lead when Boluwatife Ajina found David Shedrack inside the box. Shedrack’s effort was goal-bound, but the Sokoto United goalkeeper reacted sharply to divert the ball for a corner.
Both sides headed into halftime with the score still goalless.
ABS returned for the second half with renewed urgency and eventually broke the deadlock in the 60th minute when Saadu rose highest to head home a precise cross from Shedrack, sparking jubilation among the home supporters.
Ajina later thought he had doubled the advantage, but his strike was ruled out for offside by Assistant Referee 1.
Sokoto United pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but ABS goalkeeper Shakiru Lawal delivered a brilliant performance, making several key saves to preserve the lead.
Speaking after the match, ABS head coach Yusuf Salihu praised his players’ resilience.
“I want to thank the management for giving us everything necessary for this game. It was a really tense match from the 38th minute, but I appreciate my players for their determination and resilience. It’s not easy, the first game of the season, but I thank them for the fight.”
Goalkeeper Shakiru Lawal was later named Jenik Player of the Match, with the award presented by the CEO of Jenik Logistics, Mr. Nonso Okoh.
ABS FC will host Basira FC next weekend in their second fixture of the season.
 Ilorin FC began their 2025/2026 (NNL) campaign){kind=link}