NNL26: Ayoku and Mukiala focus on harp, hard work ahead of Lobi Stars clash

Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Ilorin FC duo of Abdulrahman Ayoku and Ahmed Mukiala have expressed great confidence ahead of their crucial Nigerian National League (NNL) Matchday 11 encounter against Lobi Stars in Makurdi.

The much-awaited match is scheduled to take place at the McCarthy Stadium in Makurdi, Benue State on Saturday, March 7, 2026, as ABS Ilorin FC look to secure valuable away points.

Ahead of the clash, ABS left-back Ahmed Mukiala stressed the importance of hard work, focus and determination as the team prepares to face their hosts.

Mukiala, who spoke in Yoruba, noted that the team remains motivated to fight for points despite the difficult challenge of playing away from home.

“I want to work hard because we need to score points in the league,” Mukiala said. “We have to be determined to get something out of tomorrow’s game. Our focus will be on hard work and training.

“Anything can happen here in Makurdi. It’s football and anything can happen, but we have to stay focused and determined.”

Midfielder Abdulrahman Ayoku also echoed similar optimism, stating that the team is fully aware of the task ahead and has prepared well for the match.

According to Ayoku, the players are determined to bounce back and give the fans something to celebrate after the disappointment of the last home game.

“We are well prepared. We know what we have to do to win the game or at least get a point. Our goal is to win,” Ayoku said.

“We know the position we are in and we are fighting. With our preparation, I know we will achieve something here. We have trained well and focused on determination, teamwork and hard work.

“We were also informed about the weather before we traveled, so we prepared for it. It’s very difficult, but our minds are fixed.

“We know we let them down in our last home game, but our focus now is to bring something joyful to our fans.

“I’m very confident we’ll get something done here.”

ABS Ilorin FC beat Lobi Stars 1-0 in the first leg thanks to Jamiu Sa’ad’s second-half goal to seal the victory in Ilorin on December 6, 2025.