Warri Wolves have been crowned champions of the 2024/25 Nigeria National League (NNL) season after securing a thrilling 3-2 victory over Wikki Tourists in the Super 8 playoffs final on Saturday.
The exciting encounter, which took place at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, saw Napoleon Aloma's side race to an impressive 3-0 lead within the first 25 minutes before withstanding a spirited comeback from their opponents.
Yusuf Abdullateef opened the scoring for the Seasiders in the seventh minute, setting the tone for what initially appeared to be a one-sided affair. The lead was doubled nine minutes later when Abdullateef turned provider, setting up Igbunu Evwierhurhoma for the second goal.
Warri Wolves continued their dominant display and were rewarded with a third goal in the 25th minute through Joshua Shemaye's clinical finish, putting them firmly in control of the match.
However, the Bauchi Elephants refused to go down without a fight. Mamuda Aliyu pulled one back for Wikki Tourists ten minutes before the halftime break, giving his team a glimmer of hope.
The comeback gained momentum when Wonderson Yakubu scored Wikki's second goal in the 59th minute, setting up a tense finale as they pushed for an equalizer.
Despite the mounting pressure, Warri Wolves' defense held firm in the closing stages to secure the victory and claim the championship title, earning promotion to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) for the 2025/26 season.
This triumph marks a significant achievement for the Seasiders, who have demonstrated remarkable consistency throughout the season under coach Napoleon Aloma's guidance.
The victory not only secures Warri Wolves' status as NNL champions but also guarantees their return to Nigeria's top-flight football, where they will be looking to establish themselves among the elite clubs in the country.
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