Remo Stars, the reigning Nigerian champions, have advanced to the second round of the CAF Champions League following a dominant 5-0 aggregate triumph over Comoros’ US Zilimadjou, according to Soccernet.ng.
The Sky Blue Stars established a strong foothold in the tie with a commanding 4-0 victory in the first leg held last week at the MKO Abiola Sports Stadium in Abeokuta.
Returning to the same venue for the second leg, Remo Stars sealed their progression with a 1-0 win, thanks to a late penalty converted by Alex Oyowah.
The winning goal came in the 85th minute when Ibrahim Abubakar’s cross was handled inside the penalty area, allowing Oyowah to calmly convert the spot-kick and deceive the goalkeeper.
This achievement marks a significant step forward for Remo Stars, who endured disappointment at this stage last season after a narrow 3-2 aggregate defeat to Moroccan powerhouse AS FAR Rabat.
Coach Daniel Ogunmodede views this progression as a clear sign of the squad’s growing self-belief and heightened aspirations.
Now, Remo Stars face their toughest challenge yet: a high-profile showdown against South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns.
This encounter reignites the fierce football rivalry between Nigeria and South Africa, promising an intense battle on the continental stage.
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The Renewed Nigeria vs South Africa Football Rivalry
Matches between Nigeria and South Africa have become increasingly competitive in recent times.
Last year, Nigeria triumphed over Bafana Bafana via penalties in the AFCON semi-finals, while the two nations drew 1-1 in back-to-back fixtures during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
At the youth level, South Africa stunned Nigeria’s Flying Eagles by reaching the U20 AFCON semifinals earlier this year.
However, the Super Falcons later avenged this by defeating Banyana Banyana 2-1 in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations semifinal held in Morocco.
Against this backdrop, Remo Stars will carry the hopes of Nigerian football fans as they prepare to face the Sundowns.
Underdogs vs Titans
On paper, Remo Stars face a daunting challenge.
Mamelodi Sundowns, established in 1970, boast a rich history in African football, having won the CAF Champions League in 2016 and finishing as runners-up in the latest edition. They have also claimed the South African Premier Division title 18 times.
In contrast, Remo Stars are relative newcomers on the continental scene. Founded just 15 years ago, they celebrated their first Nigerian Premier Football League crown this year and have yet to advance beyond the preliminary rounds of the CAF Champions League.
Nevertheless, football’s unpredictability offers hope. With their disciplined approach and boosted morale after overcoming Zilimadjou, Remo Stars are optimistic about challenging the established giants.
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