'I kept praying for one winning goal' - Pelican Stars hero Blessing Ayila reflects on promotion-winning strike
Pelican Stars' promotion hero, Blessing Ayila, has revealed that she never imagined she would score the dramatic late goal that returned the Calabar-based club to the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership.
Speaking exclusively with savidnews.com after her match-winning strike sealed promotion at the 2026 NWFL Championship, Ayila described the moment as an act of divine grace rather than personal brilliance.
"I was full of tension during the match, but I kept praying for just one winning goal," she recalled. "When I scored, I never believed it would be me. It was simply the grace of God."
The decisive goal, which came in the dying moments of the encounter, sparked wild celebrations among players, officials and supporters, ending Pelican Stars' quest to return to Nigeria's top-flight women's league.
Despite the pressure of such a crucial fixture, Ayila said the team remained calm because of their unwavering faith and belief in one another.
"Our slogan is 'In God We Trust.' We kept believing in ourselves, our fans and everyone who believed in us. That gave us the confidence to fight until the final whistle," she said.
The forward admitted that scoring one of the most important goals in the club's recent history is still difficult to put into words.
"It is overwhelming. I honestly don't have the words to express how I feel. I just thank Almighty God for using me as an instrument to help secure promotion for the club."
Ayila dedicated her memorable goal first to her mother, whom she described as her greatest source of prayers and encouragement.
"I dedicate this goal to my world-best mum for her prayers. I also dedicate it to my manager, who has always stood by me with advice, encouragement and unwavering support."
Looking ahead to life in the NWFL Premiership, the match winner urged the club's management and technical crew to remain united, warning that poor administration has been the downfall of many clubs.
"For the club to succeed in the Premiership, management and the technical crew must continue working together in love, unity and togetherness. One thing that destroys many clubs is bad management. They should continue the good work they have started."
She concluded by expressing heartfelt appreciation to the club's loyal supporters.
"I want to sincerely thank our fans for their support, prayers and belief in us throughout this journey. May God continue to bless and reward every one of them."
With her unforgettable last-minute strike now written into Pelican Stars' history, Blessing Ayila has not only secured promotion for her club but has also etched her name among the heroes of the 2026 NWFL Championship.
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