Ranchers Bees Edge Kwara United On Penalties in Dramatic Gusau/Ahlan Final

Ranchers Bees Edge Kwara United On Penalties in Dramatic Gusau/Ahlan Final

By Niyi Busari 

 Ranchers Bees FC were crowned champions of the 2026 Gusau/Ahlan Pre-Season Tournament after defeating Kwara United FC 7–6 on penalties following a goalless draw in a dramatic final, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The fifth edition of the competition culminated in a tense contest between the two sides, with neither team able to break the deadlock during 90 minutes.

Kwara United and Ranchers Bees produced a closely fought final, with both teams showing determination and defensive discipline. Despite their efforts to find a decisive goal, the match remained 0–0 at the final whistle, sending the championship decider into a penalty shootout.

The shootout provided the defining moment of the tournament.

With the pressure mounting on every kick, Ranchers Bees held their nerve to prevail 7–6 on penalties, securing the trophy and completing a memorable campaign.

The victory represents a major boost for Ranchers Bees as they continue preparations for the new football season. Beyond the silverware, the tournament provided valuable competitive minutes and an opportunity for participating teams to assess their squads, new signings and tactical approaches ahead of their respective league campaigns.

For Kwara United, the defeat was a disappointing conclusion to an otherwise strong tournament run. The Ilorin-based side pushed Ranchers Bees all the way but ultimately fell short in the decisive shootout.

The 2026 edition, the fifth in the Gusau/Ahlan Pre-Season Tournament's history, once again served its purpose as a platform for clubs to test themselves in competitive conditions before the start of the new season.

Final Result

Kwara United FC 0–0 Ranchers Bees FC

Ranchers Bees win 7–6 on penalties

Champions: Ranchers Bees FC

Runners-up: Kwara United FC

For Ranchers Bees, the final kick brought celebration and silverware. For Kwara United, it was heartbreak after a determined performance. But for supporters, the contest delivered exactly what a pre-season final should: tension, competitiveness and a dramatic finish.

The Gusau/Ahlan Pre-Season Tournament once again provided a stage for clubs to build momentum, sharpen their squads and give supporters an early glimpse of what to expect in the season ahead.

Ranchers Bees now leave Gusau with the trophy — and plenty of confidence heading into the new campaign.