Gateway United will return to the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta on Saturday (today) for their final home match of the season, as their fight to remain in the Nigeria National League enters a critical stage, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The club will host Osun United on matchday 21 of the 2024/25 campaign which will mark their first appearance at the historic Kuto ground since their last outing at the venue on April 13, 2024, when they were held to a goalless draw by Ikorodu City.
In a letter obtained by PUNCH Sports Extra, the NNL confirmed the change of venue, originally slated for the Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu Ode.
According to the letter, the relocation was prompted by a scheduling conflict.
“This change in venue is necessitated by the unavailability of the stadium due to a State function scheduled on same date at the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State,” the league body stated.
The NNL also called on local football authorities and the host team to ensure a smooth matchday experience in line with the league’s operational guidelines.
“Ogun State Football Association and Gateway United FC are by this letter requested to ensure smooth hosting of the Matchday 21 fixture in line with Nigeria National League’s rule framework,” it added.
The league further confirmed that the encounter will be live-streamed by its broadcast partners, Sportlights Hub, and urged all stakeholders to support the coverage team accordingly.
The return to Abeokuta is not only a logistical change but a significant emotional boost for Gateway United, who have spent the season shuttling between the Gateway International Stadium in Ilaro and the Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu Ode.
Acting General Manager of the club, Niyi Soleye, described the return as deeply symbolic.
“Returning to Kuto for our final home game is more than just a logistical shift, it’s a moment of reconnection,” he said.
“This is where the soul of the club resides. The fans, the energy, the history, it all comes together here. We’re proud to be back, and we want to give our supporters something to remember.”
He added that the team, having grown in strength through adversity, is counting on the Abeokuta faithful to lift them in this crucial fixture.
“We urge our supporters to turn out in large numbers. Let’s make this a celebration, not just of football, but of resilience and community spirit,” he said.
Kickoff is scheduled for 3pm today, as Gateway United aim to finish their home campaign on a high and secure vital points in their battle for survival from the drop.
