2024/2025 NPFL: Ikorodu City FC starts off, a new dawn in a cagey fight with Kano Pillars

Posted : 07 September 2024

The wait is finally over this Sunday as the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season kicks off, marking a monumental moment in Ikorodu City FC’s history as they step onto the grand stage to confront the four-time league winners, Kano Pillars FC, at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina, the new home of Sai Masu Gida.

Ahead of the highly anticipated encounter, the management of Ikorodu City FC has assured that everything is in place. The players are fired up, and the coaches are focused.

The Oga Boys will face Kano Pillars in a thrilling season opener at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina. This will mark the beginning of something special, as Ikorodu City prepares to make a significant impact in their first game in the top flight.

The Oga Boys will enter this new campaign buoyed by an impressive pre-season run, having emerged victorious in five of their last ten outings. The team has demonstrated both resilience and attacking flair, qualities that will be crucial as they look to make their mark this season.

In recent matches, Ikorodu City played a 1-1 draw with Remo Stars in the group stage of the ValueJet Cup, then beat Al Merrikh 2-1, and played another 1-1 draw with Shooting Stars in the group stage of the ValueJet Cup. They also defeated Rivers United 3-2 in the semi-final of the ValueJet Cup but fell 2-1 to Remo Stars in the final.

In the Gold Cup pre-season tournament, Ikorodu City drew 0-0 with Shooting Stars, edged FC Ebedei 1-0, and beat Osun United 3-2. They also beat Coshen FC 1-0 in a friendly and overcame Ojodu City.

Standout performances came against established sides like Rivers United and Al Merrikh of Sudan. These results, particularly the victory over the 2021/22 NPFL champions Rivers United, will instill confidence in the squad.

However, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. A narrow 2-1 defeat to Remo Stars in the ValueJet Cup final and a loss to FC Ebedei served as reminders of the fine margins at this level. Yet, the way the newly promoted Ikorodu City navigated the pre-season speaks volumes about their potential competitiveness as a team.

As the season approaches, head coach Bright Ozebagbe will be encouraged by the pre-season form and will hope to translate the promising displays into consistent performances. With a full squad and no injuries ahead of the game against Kano Pillars, the coaching staff has a complete roster to choose from.

Recent additions to the Oga Boys squad have seamlessly integrated into training sessions and are expected to compete for spots in the matchday lineup. This positive fitness update provides coach Bright Ozebagbe with numerous options and flexibility in team selection for the game.

Kano Pillars will have to watch out for Adio Ganiyu, the new signing. The young defender, fresh from captaining Beyond Limits to multiple titles, including the NNL 2024 trophy and the Viareggio Cup in Italy, could make his competitive debut. Known for his solid defending and winning mentality, Ganiyu’s presence could be crucial for the team in this game.

Another key player is Tony Obia, who impressed on loan at Inter Lagos last season in the NNL and joined the team from SKE Port Harcourt. Obia has sharp instincts in front of goal, scoring 15 goals and providing 12 assists in just 27 games for Inter Lagos last season. His 27 goal contributions made him the top scorer and assist provider for Inter Lagos across all competitions. His ability to find the back of the net could be vital for coach Bright in their match against Pillars.

Rivio Ayenmwere, who joined from neighboring Sporting Lagos FC, is another exciting signing. Rivio made history by scoring Sporting Lagos’ first-ever NPFL goal during the 2023-24 season, showcasing his ability to deliver on the big stage. Known for his technical skill and vision, Rivio brings a creative spark to the midfield, offering depth and versatility. His presence will undoubtedly add flair to the team, giving them more options in the middle of the park.

Among those who helped secure promotion, Tosin Oyedokun stood out as last season's top scorer with 10 goals and 4 assists. His vision and passing range are exceptional, allowing him to control the tempo of the game. He is also adept at pressing high up the pitch, making life difficult for opposing defenders. If he can find space against Pillars' physical midfield, he could be the difference-maker.

For Kano Pillars, it’s been 10 years since they last claimed the NPFL title, but their status as one of Nigeria’s footballing giants remains intact. The club has entrusted their ambitions this season to Usman Abdallah, the tactician who led Enyimba to the 2019 NPFL championship. Known for his sharp strategic mind, Abdallah balances attacking flair with defensive discipline—a formula that not only delivered league success but also took Enyimba to the 2018 CAF Confederation Cup semi-finals, where they fell to eventual winners Raja Casablanca.

This game against the four-time NPFL champions will be a formidable test. With club legend Rabiu Ali still pulling the strings at 43, and bolstered by the arrivals of Zulkifilu Muhammed and Naibe Akpesiri, Kano Pillars promise a thrilling contest. Our players will need to be at their best to meet the challenge ahead.

Head-to-Head:

Both teams will be meeting for the first time.

2024/2025 NPFL: Ikorodu City FC starts off, a new dawn in a cagey fight with Kano Pillars

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