Shooting Stars SC have secured a return to continental football for the first time in more than two decades, marking a major milestone for one of Nigeria’s most historic football clubs.
The Oluyole Warriors achieved the feat after an impressive campaign in the Nigeria Premier Football League, reviving memories of the club’s golden era in African football.
The Ibadan-based side, popularly known as 3SC, is one of Nigeria’s most decorated clubs with a proud continental history.
The club previously won the African Cup Winners’ Cup in 1976 and the CAF Cup in 1992, becoming one of the early Nigerian teams to achieve success on the African stage.
Their qualification comes after years of struggles, including relegation battles and inconsistent league performances.
In recent seasons, however, the club has rebuilt steadily with improved management, coaching stability, and strong support from fans and the Oyo State Government.
Players and officials had openly targeted a continental ticket throughout the season.
Forward Qamar Adegoke earlier described continental qualification as the club’s main ambition, while supporters consistently backed the team at the renovated Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.
The return of Shooting Stars to African competition is being celebrated across Nigerian football, especially among older fans who witnessed the club’s dominance in the 1970s, 80s and 90s.
Their qualification is expected to boost the profile of the NPFL and restore one of the country’s traditional football powerhouses to the continental spotlight.
