We continued our impressive run in the 2026 Nationwide League One (NLO) season with a convincing 3–1 victory over Karamba FC of Ada, maintaining our position at the top of the Oduduwa College Centre in Ile-Ife.
Our Matchday 3 encounter once again highlighted our growing cohesion, attacking sharpness, and defensive discipline, as we delivered a composed and professional performance to secure all three points.
We started the game with clear intent, asserting dominance from kickoff, and our early pressure paid off in the 8th minute. A swift counter-attacking move orchestrated by our captain, Falaye Dunsin found Makinde Iyannu, who finished clinically from the edge of the box to give us the lead.
We continued to dictate the tempo with excellent midfield interplay, while our defensive unit, led by Victor and Fatai Uthman, remained solid and well-organized. Our persistence was rewarded again in the 25th minute when our right back, Hussein Sheriff delivered a dangerous cross, and Makinde Iyannu connected superbly to complete his brace and double our advantage.
Despite the very hot weather conditions that led to a cooling break in the first half, we remained in control and went into halftime with a deserved 2–0 lead.
Karamba FC responded early in the second half, pulling a goal back in the 48th minute to briefly reduce the deficit. However, we showed resilience and tactical maturity, making key adjustments and introducing fresh legs to regain control of the game.
Our decisive third goal arrived in the 68th minute, as substitute Adedeji Ridwan delivered a brilliant ball from the left, and Olufemi Ayodele rose to head home with precision, restoring our two-goal cushion and putting the game beyond doubt.
We managed the closing stages professionally, limiting our opponents while maintaining attacking intent until the final whistle.
This result marks our third consecutive win in the 2026 NLO campaign, reinforcing our strong start and ambition in the competition. As one of the platforms for emerging clubs in Nigeria, the Nationwide League One continues to provide an avenue for growth, and our performances so far reflect our commitment to excellence and progression.
We remain focused and determined as we look ahead to our next fixture, with the objective of maintaining momentum and consolidating our position at the top of the table.
Full-Time:
AAYK FC 3–1 Karamba FC
Our Goalscorers:
Makinde Iyannu (8’, 25’)
Olufemi Ayodele (68’)
