Gata speaks on scoring first NPFL goal after six years

After a long time away from the spotlight, Ismaila Gata is back again. The experienced forward scored the lone goal and winner for Kwara United on Sunday in Ilorin in their match against Katsina United.

Gata scored a spot kick in the 87th minutes on Sunday night to the admiration of fans and supporters alike who had thronged out to watch the night football at the Kwara State Stadium Complex in Ilorin.

It was Ismaila’s first goal since his momentous exit from top football in 2018.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with The Informant247, Ismaila said it feels good to get back on the score sheet.

Ismaila Gata rejoined Kwara United at the beginning of the season and had a high expectations to relaunch his football career.

“I feel good to have scored the goal. I would like to keep on the performance and the good work. If there is a chance for me to play again; i believe, i will deliver”

Speaking on the spot kick, Gata, who was introduced into the game in the second half, said he was confident of scoring the goal despite the tense atmosphere.

“I went there to play the penalty myself because I believe I can score.

Kwara United, now 11th on the NPFL log with 23 points will face Shooting Stars in their next game in Ibadan.

Speaking about the game, Gata, who is also a former player of the Shooting Stars, is confident of getting a good result against the Oluyole Warriors.

He said , “I always scored against Shooting Stars if I play against them. I scored them in Ilorin in 2015, and I believe we will get maximum points.

Rejoining Kwara United at the beginning of the season was regarded as a turning point for Ismaila’s career, having spent some years without featuring for top sides.

Amongst other top clubs, Ismaila Gata has played for teams like the two-time CAF Champions League winners, Enyimba FC, defunct Ifeanyi Ubah FC, Akwa United and ABS Ilorin FC.

The Gatas family has become an household name in Nigerian football with three of them playing professional football. While one of them, Adeshina Hajji Gata is playing alongside Ismaila in Kwara United, one of their siblings, Mubarak Gata is plying his trade outside the shore of the country.