Shooting Stars Under Scrutiny: Club Launches Investigation After President Federation Cup Expulsion
In a dramatic turn of events, Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) has found itself embroiled in controversy following its expulsion from the 2025 President Federation Cup by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The expulsion was triggered by allegations that the Oluyole Warriors fielded five ineligible players in their Round of 64 tie against Zamfara United.
The shocking announcement was made shortly after Shooting Stars secured a walkover victory against Zamfara United in Abuja. The timing of the news only heightened the disappointment and frustration of fans who expected their team to progress in the competition.
In response, Shooting Stars’ management swiftly addressed the matter, calling for patience and calm among their supporters. In a statement released by the club’s media officer, Tosin Omojola, the club confirmed that investigations are already underway.
**“Sequel to the letter, written by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), expelling us from this year’s President Federation Cup, on the ground that we fielded ‘ineligible’ players, the management of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), wish to inform our teeming supporters and fans that we are taking steps to address the matter.
Having received the letter on Wednesday afternoon, moments after we walked over Zamfara United in a Round of 64 fixture in Abuja, we want to state that internal and external investigations have commenced on the issue.
While this is ongoing, we hereby appeal for calm and patience, knowing fully the tension the issue has generated, with a promise to make an official statement immediately our findings are concluded.”**
Opinion: What This Means for Shooting Stars’ Reputation
The expulsion of Shooting Stars from such a high-profile competition is not just a blow to their campaign but also a dent in the club’s credibility. Fans are rightfully frustrated, as the alleged administrative blunder has cost them the chance to see their team progress.
The club’s decision to launch internal and external investigations is commendable. It shows a willingness to address the situation with transparency. However, the real challenge will be in ensuring the findings are made public and that those responsible are held accountable.
But there’s a broader conversation here about the management of teams and adherence to rules. Could this have been a simple oversight, or is there a deeper structural problem within the club's administrative process?
For Shooting Stars, the outcome of this investigation will either restore their reputation or tarnish it further. As fans await an official statement, the club’s management must tread carefully to ensure that their next steps are clear, fair, and decisive.
The question remains: Will Shooting Stars rise above this crisis and redeem their name, or will this become yet another disappointing chapter in the club’s history?
