2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 29: Glory-seeking Ikorodu City FC welcomes resolute Enyimba International FC

Posted : 16 March 2025

It will definitely be a classic between two opposing sides in one of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Match Day 29 fixtures as the newly promoted Ikorodu City FC faces Rivers United FC at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

The league newcomer, Ikorodu City FC, is set to chase maximum points against the league’s nine-time winners, Enyimba.

On paper, the Peoples Elephant should have the upper hand, but given the current form of the Oga Boys, there should be no doubt that the match could go the way of the home side.

In fact, Ikorodu City’s remarkable season has been one of the biggest surprises in the NPFL.

Despite being newcomers, they have defied expectations and currently sit third on the table—three points ahead of Enyimba, who are in eighth place.

If Nuruden Aweroro beats Stanley Eguma with their current form, it won't be considered a huge upset, but it won’t be counted as such, given Ikorodu City’s impressive performance in the league.

Also, on paper, the Oga Boys should be considered as favorites going into this game, as the Peoples Elephant may struggle to catch up with their attacking progress.

Now, back-to-back wins are on the cards for Ikorodu City after their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Lobi Stars in Lafia last Sunday.

The key man for the hosts will be Shola Adelani, who is in red-hot form. Enyimba’s defenders will have to be at their best to contain him when the teams clash in Lagos.

For the Peoples Elephant, they will rely on their Lagos returnees, former Sporting Lagos duo, Junior Lokosa and Ufere Chinedu, who once played in the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.

It will be a return to familiar hunting grounds for Lokosa and Ufere, one that promises nostalgia but also immense stakes in the battle for top spots on the league table.

The 2024/2025 NPFL season is gradually winding up with just 10 games left in the campaign, so for the team, every point carries significant weight while both teams must be ready for the fallout.

Enyimba traditionally should still be in the hunt for a top-three finish and cannot afford any slip-ups, while Ikorodu City, the NPFL’s new sensation, will be eager to prove their mettle against the nine-time league champions.

The reverse fixture in Aba was a dramatic affair, with Enyimba snatching a last-gasp 2-1 victory after Moses Adukwu struck in stoppage time. This time, however, the Peoples Elephant must navigate an even trickier challenge against a side that seems to have turned their home ground into a fortress.

For Lokosa, the trip to Lagos is one of mixed emotions. The former NPFL Golden Boot winner knows the terrain well, having previously dazzled fans in the city. But sentimentality will take a backseat as Enyimba seeks to strengthen their push for a continental ticket.

"Yeah, our next game is against Ikorodu City, and it's a stadium I know very well. Right now, they are in good shape, playing in front of their home fans, and the Lagosians are very supportive," Lokosa told reporters ahead of the clash.

"We are going there to give our all because we know our target and what we are aiming for. It won't be an easy game, but I believe with our last two performances, we are coming out with a good spirit and in good form. Our fans should give us the support, and I believe we will come out victorious."

With the league gradually hitting its crescendo and CAF competition slots up for grabs, Enyimba cannot afford to drop points. Currently positioned within striking distance of the top three, they know that consistency is key.

"The chances of making the top three are still open," Lokosa added. "We just need to take our chances both home and away, which I believe we are adjusting to. Hopefully, we will be good."

While Enyimba has shown flashes of brilliance, their struggle with missed chances remains a concern. Lokosa, however, believes improvement is a matter of time.

"As a striker, when you miss a great chance, you can be worried, but it's a gradual process. We are working on it, and I believe we will get better."

The former Remo Stars hitman may not have found the back of the net for Enyimba since joining, but he remains upbeat, drawing inspiration from veteran forward Brown Ideye.

"Playing alongside a legend like Brown Ideye is an honor. I'm happy to share the pitch with him; he is an amazing and loving person. He always helps us correct little mistakes we make."

"Yeah, I'm yet to score, but I know the goals will come. I haven't had many games, but that's not an excuse. I can see it coming, and once it starts, it will continue."

With both teams eyeing a place in CAF competitions, this match could be a season-defining one.

Head to Head

This will be the second clash between both teams.

2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 29: Glory-seeking Ikorodu City FC welcomes resolute Enyimba International FC

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