Katsina United maintained their strong home form with a narrow but deserved 1-0 victory over Sunshine Stars in a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Week 11 clash at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium.

The breakthrough came in the second half through Mohammed Hadi, whose close-range finish secured the three points for the Changi Boys. But the major talking point after the final whistle was the debut of 16-year-old winger Bryant Ebipade Samuel, who came off the bench in the closing minutes to make his first appearance in the NPFL.

Katsina United dominated much of the contest, controlling possession and creating the better chances, particularly through quick build-up play down the flanks. Despite several missed opportunities in the first half, the hosts eventually found the opener shortly after the hour mark. Hadi reacted quickest to a loose ball in the box and finished calmly to send the home supporters into celebration.

Sunshine Stars pressed forward in search of an equaliser as the match drew to a close, but Katsina’s defence held firm, demonstrating organisation and discipline.

With just five minutes remaining, head coach Abdullahi Biffo introduced Samuel, a recent signing from Rovers FC of Calabar, marking the teenager’s first outing in the top flight. Though his appearance was brief, the young winger showed composure and maturity beyond his years, drawing a foul deep in opposition territory and helping his side manage the closing stages.

Speaking after the match, Biffo praised the youngster’s progress in training. “Bryant is one for the future. He’s been working hard and today was a small but important step for him.”

Katsina United captain Hassan Salisu described the win as a “tough match” but commended the team’s resilience. On Samuel’s debut, Salisu said: “The boy has talent. You’ll see more of him soon.”

The result sees Katsina United extend their unbeaten run at home as they prepare for a testing away fixture against Kano Pillars. Sunshine Stars, meanwhile, will look to regroup as they host Enugu Rangers in their next outing.