*Gideon Stephen wins Cyteck MOTM award
Kwara United came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory over Ranchers Bees of Kaduna in their Euromatch Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 7 encounter played yesterday, Sunday October 4, 2026, at the Rashidi Yekini Main-Bowl of the George Agbazika Innih Stadium Complex, Ilorin.
The visitors took an early lead through Jamilu Yusuf, whose weak shot from close range slipped past Kwara United goalkeeper Stanley Victor, who appeared to have the situation under control before the ball mistakenly deflected off his leg into the net.
Kwara United had a golden opportunity to draw level when Sanni Mohammed failed to convert a one-on-one chance, as his effort was denied by Ranchers Bees goalkeeper amid mounting pressure from the hosts.
Despite creating several scoring opportunities, the Harmony Boys went into the break trailing 0-1, with Jerry Alex substituted in the first half, replaced by Stephen Gideon.
Kwara United returned for the second half with renewed determination and greater urgency in attack, and their efforts paid off in the 51st minute when Gidado Toyeeb powered home a header from a well-delivered cross by substitute Adeshina Gata, who had replaced Sanni Mohammed.
Ranchers Bees were subsequently reduced to 10 men after Faisal Sanni received a red card for a second bookable offence following two yellow cards.
The numerical advantage further boosted Kwara United’s confidence as they continued to push for a winner, which eventually arrived in the 79th minute.
Substitute Qudus Opeyemi initiated the move with a back pass to Aliu Ferinyaro, who delivered a fine cross into the box for Stephen Gideon to rise and head the ball into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
It would be recalled that Kwara United had to come back from behind to beat Nasarawa United 2-1 in Matchday 5, decided at the same venue.
Speaking at the post-match conference, Kwara United head coach, Ashifat Sulyman, praised his players for their resilience, determination and fighting spirit, insisting that they deserved the victory based on their overall performance.
The victory moves Kwara United to eighth position on the NPFL table, as the Harmony Boys turn their attention to their next fixture against Ikorodu City in Lagos on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Gideon Stephen has been named the Cyteck Man of the Match following his impressive performance in Kwara United’s 2-1 victory over Ranchers Bees of Kaduna in the NPFL Matchday 7 encounter decided at the Rashidi Yekini Main-Bowl of the George Agbazika Innih Stadium Complex, Ilorin.
The award, sponsored and presented by Engr. Ahmed Olaide, underscores the sponsor’s continued love, passion and unwavering support for Kwara United.
Stephen, who delivered an outstanding performance to help the Harmony Boys secure all three points, expressed appreciation to the fans and supporters of the club for their encouragement.
He described the recognition as a morale booster that would further motivate him to give his best for the team in subsequent matches.
Stephen and Gidado were on target for Kwara United as their goals condemned Ranchers Bees to defeat in Ilorin, ensuring the Harmony Boys secured a vital home victory.
The Cyteck Man of the Match award is part of Engr. Ahmed Olaide’s continued commitment to recognising and rewarding outstanding performances by Kwara United players.
