In the unpredictable realm of football, fortunes can change as swiftly as the wind. Such is the narrative of Gateway United, a stalwart of the Nigerian National League (NNL) whose journey through the league has been akin to a rollercoaster ride.
For the past 12 years, Gateway United, owned by the Ogun state government, has been akin to a patron lingering too long in a barbershop and inevitably getting their hair done. Yet, despite the near misses and tumultuous seasons, the team, under the stewardship of Samson Omiponle, has displayed resilience, epitomized by their 7 games unbeaten run.
However, the current season didn’t commence with the desired vigour for Gateway United. Hindered by registration issues leading to a delayed start, the team faced early setbacks. However, the Gateway boys have mounted a formidable resurgence in the latter half of the season. A commendable seven-game unbeaten streak has bolstered their campaign, albeit with the ultimate goal remaining promotion to the topflight league.
While Osun United presently leads the pack, their position appears precarious, akin to an elephant perched precariously on a tree branch, destined to adhere to the law of gravity. Meanwhile, Ikorodu City, the second-placed team, grapples with a squad riddled with injury woes.
Amidst this resurgence, three unsung heroes have emerged within Gateway United’s ranks: Sulaimon Ogunleye, Segun Simon, and Jamiu Hamzat. Ogunleye, a diminutive yet dynamic right-back, has blossomed into a linchpin since joining in 2020, showcasing proficiency in pace, precision passing, tenacious tackling, and composure under pressure.
Likewise, Jamiu Amzat, a formidable left-back akin to Marcelo, dazzles with his dribbling prowess, complementing Ogunleye’s defensive solidity.
Completing this defensive trident is Segun Simon, a cerebral central defender adept at marshalling the backline, orchestrating play from deep, and launching incisive passes to ignite attacking forays. Segun Simon, former Warri Wolves FC player was an integral player in the Sporting Lagos squad that ensured their promotion last season.
As Gateway United’s resurgence gathers momentum, propelled by the contributions of these unsung heroes, the prospect of, at least, an NNL playoff beckons tantalizingly, marking a potential watershed moment in the club’s storied history.
