By Kanu Samuel
Sunshine Stars U19 head coach Nike Ayeni has credited discipline, preparation and strong institutional support for her side’s remarkable run in the 2026 Federation Cup.
Ayeni, an Akure-born tactician widely regarded as the only female coach currently managing a male team in the competition, has guided Sunshine Stars U19 to a historic campaign that has attracted attention across Nigerian football.
The young side achieved a milestone by winning their first State FA Cup title before progressing to the Round of 16 of the national Federation Cup, becoming one of the few academy teams from Ondo State to reach that stage of the competition.
Sunshine Stars U19 secured a 3-1 play-off victory over Harmony FC and stunned Nigeria Premier Football League side Niger Tornadoes FC with a 2-1 win. They continued their impressive form by defeating Warinje FC 2-1 to book their place in the last 16.
The achievement places the team among the most successful academy sides in the state’s football history, with only Akure City FC having previously recorded a similar feat in 2022.
Speaking after the latest victory, Ayeni said the success was the result of months of hard work and commitment from her players.
“This victory is not just about today; it is about the hard work these boys have put in from day one,” she said.
“We respected our opponents, but we believed in our structure, our strategy and our strength. The players executed the game plan perfectly.”
The coach also paid tribute to the Ondo State Football Agency, praising chairman Divine Ogbonaya and members of the board for their continued support throughout the campaign.
“I want to sincerely thank the chairman, Divine Ogbonaya, and the board for their consistent support and encouragement,” she said.
“Their belief in this team, timely support and commitment to football development in Ondo State have motivated the players immensely. We are determined to repay that trust by going as far as possible in this competition.”
Under Ayeni’s leadership, Sunshine Stars U19 remain unbeaten in the tournament.
“We qualified for the Round of 16 without losing a match and that tells you about the mentality of this team,” she said.
“From the draw against Akure North United to the victories over Adamimigo FC, Harmony FC, Niger Tornadoes and Warinje FC, the boys have shown character. But the job is not finished. We are focused on lifting the trophy.”
Ayeni, a CAF Licence C coach and National Institute for Sports-certified tactician, previously served as assistant coach of Sunshine Queens FC, helping the club secure qualification for the Nigeria Women Football Premier League.
A former player and team captain before moving into coaching, she believes her experience at different levels of the game has played a significant role in shaping the disciplined and tactically organised side.
“Experience matters in tournaments like this. I have been privileged to work at different levels, and all those experiences prepared me for this moment,” she said.
“I believe in developing players mentally and physically, and you can see the result on the pitch.”
Ayeni also highlighted unity within the squad as a major factor behind the team’s success.
“This is a team built on trust. Every player understands his role. We attack together and defend together,” she said.
Despite growing attention surrounding the team’s achievements, the coach insists her players remain focused on the task ahead.
“Our focus is clear. We respect every opponent we face, but we believe in ourselves,” she said.
“By God’s grace, we will give Ondo State something to celebrate.”
With confidence high and an unbeaten record intact, Sunshine Stars U19 will head into the next stage of the Federation Cup hoping to extend a memorable journey and bring further glory to Ondo State football.
+ There are no comments
Add yours