FT: OSUN UNITED HANDBALL CLUB 20–19 BENUE BUFFALOS
It was nothing short of a dramatic finish for Osun United Handball Club as the debutants pulled off a stunning late comeback to defeat Benue Buffalos Handball Club in a pulsating Matchday 10 clash — the final game of Phase One of the 2025 Ardova Premier Handball League.
Trailing 19-17 with just under three minutes left on the clock, many had already written off Osun United. But the boys dug deep and mounted a spirited late push, scoring three unanswered goals to snatch a memorable 20-19 victory at the death.
Birthday boy and star player Osemeka Lucky Oluwagbemileke was simply unplayable on the day. He marked his special occasion with a standout performance — converting all eight of his 7-meter penalties, delivering crucial defensive stops, and inspiring the comeback with unmatched determination and grit.
The entire bench erupted in jubilation at the final whistle, knowing what this result meant: Osun United wrapped up Phase One of their first-ever campaign in Nigeria’s elite handball division with 4 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses, placing them in a promising 6th position on the log — well clear of relegation danger as they await final standings after other Matchday 10 fixtures.
Team captain Emmanuel Ayegoro commended the squad’s resilience and spirit:
“People underrated us. They thought we would be relegated right away. But we’ve proved them wrong — we’re here to stay, and if possible, push for a continental ticket. Now we call on the Osun State Government, His Excellency Senator Nurudeen Jackson Ademola Adeleke and Deputy Governor Osun State Prince Kola Adewusi, to support us. We’ve bled and sweated for the state, and we believe we’ve earned that support.”
Osun United now look ahead to Phase Two of the league, scheduled to hold in Lagos between October and November 2025, with renewed confidence and the backing of their growing fan base.
An important win for everyone! 😁💪👏
Ardova Premier Handball League Phase One — Done and Dusted. 💯
