2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 26: Arumala Inspires Ikorodu City to Historic Aba Triumph

Posted : 16 February 2026

League leaders Ikorodu City FC underlined their championship credentials with a resolute 1–0 away victory over nine-time champions Enyimba International FC in a pulsating Matchday 26 encounter of the Nigeria Premier Football League on Sunday.

In a contest defined by discipline, resilience, and a moment of magic, Joseph Arumala’s first-half stunner proved decisive, as the Lagos-based outfit left Aba with three priceless points to consolidate their place at the summit.

Tactical discipline meets clinical execution

Rather than being overwhelmed by the intimidating atmosphere at the Enyimba fortress, Ikorodu City displayed remarkable composure from the onset. The hosts attempted to stamp authority early, with Kalu Nweke firing wide in the 20th minute after Wonah Williams failed to capitalise on a loose ball.

But it was the visitors who steadily found their rhythm. Chidera tested the Enyimba goalkeeper in the 12th minute, signaling Ikorodu City’s intent to compete on equal footing.

The decisive moment arrived in the 29th minute.

Arumala, alert and aggressive in midfield, intercepted possession and surged forward with purpose. Outpacing his marker, he unleashed a ferocious strike into the top corner — a goal of outstanding quality that stunned the Aba crowd and shifted the psychological balance of the contest.

Enyimba’s response falls short

The hosts reacted swiftly with tactical reshuffles before halftime, introducing Samuel Okechukwu and Obichere Odinaka in search of renewed momentum. However, Ikorodu City’s compact defensive structure limited clear openings and preserved their slender advantage into the break.

After the restart, Enyimba intensified their pressure. Eddidiong Ezekiel and Paul Odeh were thrown into the fray as the champions sought an equaliser.

Their best opportunity came in the 63rd minute when Okechukwu forced a superb save from the Ikorodu goalkeeper. It was a defining moment — one that kept the visitors in control.

Ikorodu City, meanwhile, remained dangerous on the counter. Arumala nearly doubled the lead in the 80th minute with a powerful drive that was tipped onto the crossbar. Substitute Tomisin Adebayo also came agonisingly close in stoppage time, only to see his effort cleared off the line.

Statement victory in the title race

Beyond the narrow scoreline, this was a victory of character and maturity for Ikorodu City. Winning in Aba against Enyimba is no ordinary feat — doing so while defending a single-goal advantage for over an hour speaks volumes about their title ambition.

The result sees Ikorodu City maintain top spot with 44 points from 26 matches.

Rangers International FC trail closely with 43 points following their win over Wikki Tourist, while Rivers United FC sit third on 41 points, albeit with games in hand.

With momentum firmly on their side, Ikorodu City have not only defended their summit status — they have sent a powerful message to the rest of the league.

The title race just got even more compelling.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 26: Arumala Inspires Ikorodu City to Historic Aba Triumph

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