Remo Stars assistant coach Sulaimon Kamil says player anxiety led to errors during their 2–1 comeback win over El-Kanemi Warriors in Abeokuta

Remo Stars assistant coach Sulaimon Kamil has attributed his side’s errors in Monday’s 2–1 comeback victory over El-Kanemi Warriors to player anxiety, saying the Sky Blue Stars were desperate to end their five-game winless run.

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Speaking after the thrilling encounter at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, Kamil said the players’ eagerness to secure their first victory in six matches led to rushed decisions and avoidable mistakes.

“The players were very anxious to get a goal, and that made them commit a lot of mistakes,” Kamil told reporters. “It was because they were so eager to get that first win after six matches. In the end, they fought hard and got it the difficult way, which is very good for us.”

El-Kanemi had taken the lead in the 58th minute through Jonas Emmanuel’s close-range header after a tightly contested first half in which Remo Stars dominated possession but failed to convert several chances.

Victor Mbaoma struck the crossbar before the break, while Olamilekan Adedayo and Adama Goita were both denied from distance by fine goalkeeping.

Kamil explained that the team’s tactical approach shifted once they went behind. “We initially planned to replace Oshidero with another defensive midfielder, Shaka. But when we conceded, we knew we had to take a risk. We stopped that change and instead brought in Haruna and Samse, which eventually paid off with the win.”

He also discussed his decision to introduce Michael Ibe late in the game. “We were already considering bringing on Ebi, but the question was who to take off. I discussed it with Thiago, and he agreed we should sacrifice Babao. It was a risk, but it worked.”

The substitutions proved decisive. Mbaoma equalised from the penalty spot in the 87th minute before Ibe struck a dramatic winner in stoppage time to seal a morale-boosting victory.

The result lifted Remo Stars out of the relegation zone into 16th place on 13 points, giving them renewed confidence ahead of Thursday’s home clash with Enugu Rangers.

Kamil expressed optimism about his side’s prospects. “If they play like this against Rangers, they can even beat Rangers, it’s possible. Every game depends on its approach. You saw how El-Kanemi tried to sit back and defend; Rangers may not play that way.”

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The win marks a vital step forward for Remo Stars, whose late surge in Abeokuta could prove the turning point of their campaign.