Shooting Stars chairman Taiwo Salami has set an ambitious target of winning a treble in the 2026/27 season, as the Ibadan-based club prepares for a fresh campaign following their third-place finish in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) last season. The Oluyole Warriors secured continental football return for the first time in 27 years, marking a significant milestone in the club’s history. With new leadership on the technical bench and several quality signings bolstering the squad, Salami is confident the team can challenge for major titles both domestically and internationally.
The club has made strategic changes to its coaching structure, appointing former Super Eagles assistant coach Salisu Yusuf as the new head coach, replacing Nurudeen Aweroro. This move signals a shift towards more experienced and tactically astute leadership, aimed at elevating the team’s performance. Yusuf brings with him valuable experience from his time with the national team, which could prove crucial in guiding Shooting Stars through the rigours of domestic and continental competitions.
In addition to the coaching change, Shooting Stars have strengthened their squad with the arrival of several new players. These additions are expected to enhance depth and competitiveness across all positions, giving the team a better chance to succeed in multiple tournaments. The club’s management believes this blend of experience and youth will create a balanced and dynamic side capable of achieving great things.
Salami expressed his optimism during an interview with 3SCFansTV, stating, “We are cooking something special, and we would serve the fans the delicacy starting from this Friday against Inter Lagos.” He emphasized that the new season is about ambition and execution, declaring, “We want to win the league, do well in the CAF Confederation Cup, and win the Federation Cup.” The chairman’s confidence stems from the belief that the current squad is strong enough to deliver on these lofty goals.
The opening match of the 2026/27 NPFL season will see Shooting Stars host Inter Lagos at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Adamasingba, Ibadan, on Friday. This fixture marks the beginning of what the club hopes will be a historic campaign. As one of Nigeria’s most storied football institutions, Shooting Stars have won five NPFL titles in the past, and this season presents a golden opportunity to add more silverware to their trophy cabinet.
With a clear vision, solid preparations, and a motivated squad, Shooting Stars are poised to make waves in Nigerian football once again. The treble ambition may seem bold, but with the right execution and support, it remains within reach. Fans across Ibadan and beyond are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an exciting season for the Oluyole Warriors.
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