2026 Ex-Internationals Cup: FC Ikpeba fights back twice to earn dramatic draw against FC Odini

Posted : 11 June 2026

FC Ikpeba demonstrated tremendous fighting spirit as they came from behind twice to secure a hard-earned 2-2 draw against FC Odini in the first leg of their Lagos Ex-Internationals Cup Round of 32 encounter at Alade Stadium, Iyana Ipaja, Ayobo.

In a pulsating contest packed with chances, momentum swings, and late drama, FC Ikpeba refused to surrender despite trailing on two occasions, leaving the tie delicately poised ahead of the return leg.

The visitors endured a nightmare start when FC Odini struck with virtually their first attack of the afternoon.

Just one minute into the match, Malomo Basit capitalized on an early opportunity to put the hosts ahead, sending the home supporters into celebration and giving FC Odini immediate control of proceedings.

Buoyed by the early breakthrough, the hosts dominated the opening exchanges, with Sangotoki Enoch, Sunday Victor, and Nwabueze Emmanuel orchestrating attacks from midfield and forcing FC Ikpeba onto the defensive.

Despite the pressure, FC Ikpeba gradually settled into the game and began to find their rhythm.

Their determination was highlighted in the 15th minute when Daniel Okon received treatment for a head injury before courageously returning to continue the contest.

Moments later, FC Ikpeba nearly produced a spectacular equaliser. Ayodele Isiah connected brilliantly with a scissors kick inside the penalty area, only for the FC Odini goalkeeper to deny him with an outstanding save.

The visitors continued to grow in confidence and almost levelled again in the 25th minute, but Enoch Dannuma was unable to convert after finding space in a dangerous position.

Their persistence eventually yielded rewards in the 33rd minute.

From a corner kick, Daniel Okon rose highest inside the box and powered home a header to bring FC Ikpeba back on level terms at 1-1.

The equaliser transformed the momentum of the game.

FC Ikpeba almost completed a remarkable turnaround shortly afterward when Dannuma raced through and finished clinically, but the effort was ruled out for offside.

While FC Odini searched for a response, FC Ikpeba continued to threaten and looked the more confident side heading into halftime, with the score remaining 1-1.

The second half resumed with FC Odini pressing aggressively in search of another breakthrough.

Both teams exchanged attacks in an increasingly open contest, with opportunities appearing at either end.

FC Ikpeba remained dangerous through the combination of Adewale Sadiq and Ayodele Isiah, while goalkeeper Izochukwu Uche made several important interventions to keep his side in the game.

The hosts eventually regained the lead when substitute Nsikak Nsikak made an immediate impact.

After Izochukwu Uche parried a powerful effort from Adewale Samad, the substitute reacted quickest to the loose ball and fired home from close range to make it 2-1.

The goal appeared to place FC Odini in command with less than 20 minutes remaining.

However, FC Ikpeba once again showed their resilience.

As the clock ticked towards the final stages, a corner kick created chaos inside the FC Odini penalty area. Amid a crowded goalmouth, Assurance Solomon displayed sharp reactions to force the ball over the line in the 82nd minute and restore parity for the visitors.

The late equaliser shifted momentum dramatically.

Sensing an opportunity to snatch victory, FC Ikpeba pushed forward and earned a promising free kick in the closing minutes, but Kingsman Ibijuwa was unable to direct his effort on target.

With six minutes of added time signalled, both teams launched desperate attempts to find a winner.

FC Odini threatened through a final aerial assault into the penalty area, but FC Ikpeba's defence stood firm, with Akinsanya Toheeb producing a crucial clearance to preserve the draw.

At the final whistle, FC Ikpeba emerged with a valuable result after twice recovering from losing positions in hostile territory.

While FC Odini will take positives from an impressive attacking display and the influence of substitute Nsikak Nsikak, FC Ikpeba can be particularly encouraged by their character, discipline, and refusal to give up.

With honours even after an entertaining first-leg battle, all eyes will now turn to the decisive return fixture, where a place in the next round of the Lagos Ex-Internationals Cup will be at stake.

This thrilling encounter highlights the intense competition defining the tournament this season. Both teams showed elite offensive capabilities, but defensive adjustments will be critical ahead of the reverse fixture. The upcoming second leg promises high drama as each side aims to capitalize on their first-leg lessons to advance.

2026 Ex-Internationals Cup: FC Ikpeba fights back twice to earn dramatic draw against FC Odini

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