The youthful Akure based side stunned the 2019 Federation Cup runners-up with two quick first-half goals at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl of the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.
Khalil Nurudeen opened the scoring in the 10th minute before Ugohukwu Lawrence doubled the advantage just two minutes later, leaving Niger Tornadoes chasing the game for the remainder of the encounter.
Despite dominating possession and using their experience to control large spells of the second half, Niger Tornadoes struggled to break down the resilient Sunshine Stars U-19 defence. Abdulaziz Dalhatu eventually pulled one back in the 70th minute, but it proved to be only a consolation as the youthful Akure-based side held firm to secure a famous victory.
Speaking after the match, Sunshine Stars U-19 head coach Ayeni Adenike praised her players for their determination and fearless mentality against top-flight opposition.
“I am very happy to beat a Premier side. It’s not easy but kudos to my boys for their determination, they are ready to play anybody anytime,” she said.
“They were the better side, they made use of their experience but we took our chances earlier in the game and used our energy to see out the game.
“When I saw the fixture I wasn’t scared because I knew my boys and their determination during training. I knew we would make a statement.”
Coach Adenike also revealed that her team’s focus now shifts to winning both the N-Youth League Super Eight and the President Federation Cup.
“We take this energy to the N-Youth League Super Eight. Our target is winning the Super Eight and also the President Federation Cup. I want to bring another trophy to Ondo State.
“The last time the state celebrated a trophy was the FA Cup triumph in 2013 with Sunshine Queens, of which I was the captain,” she added.
The result marks a memorable moment for the Sunshine Stars youth side as they continue their impressive rise, while Niger Tornadoes become one of the early casualties of this year’s competition