Warri Wolves FC reignited their promotion campaign at the Nigeria National League (NNL) Super 8 with a commanding 3-0 victory over Kun Khalifat FC on matchday two at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba.
After a disappointing 2-1 loss to Osun United in their opening game, the Wolves came out with renewed intensity and purpose. Their early dominance was rewarded when Jude Ebhohon struck twice in the first half to give the team a 2-0 lead going into the break.
Yarhere Efe added a third goal in the 66th minute, finishing off a well-worked move. However, his celebration was short-lived as he was later shown a straight red card for violent conduct, forcing Warri Wolves to see out the remainder of the game with 10 men.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Coach Napoleon Aluma’s side maintained control and comfortably saw out the match to claim their first three points of the playoffs. The win moves them level on points with Kun Khalifat, but ahead on goal difference heading into the final round of group matches.
Speaking after the game, Coach Aluma praised his players for their response and composure following the setback in the opening round.
“Self-belief was the motivating factor,” Aluma said. “We went unbeaten throughout the regular season. After that first loss, we had to regroup, correct our mistakes, and remind ourselves of what we’re capable of. This performance shows our character. I still strongly believe we’ll win our last match and qualify.”
On the opposite bench, Kun Khalifat coach Obinna Uzor admitted that conceding early shattered his team’s momentum.
“That early goal completely demoralised us,” Uzor said. “It disrupted our rhythm and gave them a confidence boost. We tried to recover, but Warri Wolves were more clinical and composed.”
Late Drama in Southwest Derby
Meanwhile, the other match in the Southern Conference between Crown FC and Osun United produced late drama in a tense southwest derby. Crown FC had taken the lead through Falolu’s 55 minutes strike, but Osun United snatched a point at the death after Abolude calmly converted a penalty in the final minutes of the game. The 1-1 draw leaves Crown FC’s hope of promotion hanging on a thread ahead of the final round of fixtures.
Group B: Yobe Desert Stars Take Top Spot
Earlier in the day in the Northern Conference, Yobe Desert Stars continued their impressive form with a 2-1 win over Doma United, a result that takes them to the top of Group A with four points from two matches. Meanwhile, Barau FC and Wiki Tourists played out a cagey goalless draw in the other fixture.
What’s Next
Warri Wolves will face Crown FC on Thursday, 10th July 2025 in a decisive final group match, while Kun Khalifat will battle Osun United. In Group A, Yobe Desert Stars will aim to seal qualification against Wiki Tourists and Doma United must beat Barau FC to have any hope of progressing.
With promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on the line, all eyes will be on the final round of matches as teams push for a top-two finish in their respective groups.