Federation Cup: Observant Okunlola reveals 'well planned strategy' that worked in Warri Wolves win
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Warri Wolves striker Sodiq Okunlola

Federation Cup: Observant Okunlola reveals 'well planned strategy' that worked in Warri Wolves win

Jidechi Chidiezie 19:35 - 25.05.2023

Second division side Warri Wolves will compete in the quarterfinal of the 2023 Federation Cup alongside 7 NPFL clubs.

Warri Wolves striker Sodiq Okunlola has reacted to his team’s victory in the 2023 Federation Cup Round of 16 against Gombe United, calling it a well-calculated plan.

Wolves in their last 16 encounter at the FIFA Goal Project Pitch in Abuja, handed the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side a shock defeat after Okunlola had come on as a substitute to score an 89th-minute winner.

The win sees the second division join seven NPFL sides in the quarterfinal of the 2023 competition.

Warri Wolves benefit off Okunlola's observation

Reacting to Wednesday's victory, the forward revealed that he had spent his time on the bench studying the errors of the opponents prior to coming on for Warri Wolves.

Warri Wolves last made the final of the Federation Cup in 2013 but lost out to Enyimba on penalties, after a thrilling 2-2 encounter.
Warri Wolves last made the final of the Federation Cup in 2013 but lost out to Enyimba on penalties, after a thrilling 2-2 encounter.

“While off the field I noticed that one of the defenders had always gambled (with his desicions), and was very uncomfortable while on the ball,” Okunlola said in an interview released by the club's media.

“When the pass was crossed, I had to chase him down because I knew he was going to gamble again. I also noticed the goalkeeper was out of his line, so I had to believe in myself and take the chance," he added.

Warri Wolves eyeing first final since 2013

En route to the last 8, the Delta club had defeated Ogun's Beyond Limits FA, 4-0, and Oyo's Shooting Stars via penalties, in the Round of 64, and 32 respectively.

Victory over Gombe United would see the Seasiders take on 1999 champions Lobi Stars, in the quarterfinal of the competition.

The Seasiders who are yet to ever win the Federation Cup, last made the final of the competition in 2013 but lost out to Enyimba on penalties, after a thrilling 2-2 encounter.

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