Inter Lagos Boost Title Hopes With Clinical 2-0 Victory Over Ranchers Bees

Posted : 07 May 2026

Inter Lagos produced a vital performance to keep their title aspirations alive during the Nigeria National League (NNL) Super 4 tournament. The Lagos-based side secured a 2-0 win over Ranchers Bees of Kaduna on Wednesday evening at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne. Having lost their opening match 1-0 to Doma United; the pressure was on the Lagosians to deliver a result to stay in contention for the second-tier trophy.

The first half was a closely contested affair with few clear opportunities for either side. Both teams canceled each other out in the midfield; leading to a scoreless draw at the halftime interval. However; the deadlock was broken almost immediately after the restart. In the 47th minute; Qoyum Akinpelu capitalized on a loose ball in the box to fire a powerful low shot past the Ranchers Bees goalkeeper.

The opening goal shifted the momentum entirely in favor of Inter Lagos. Akinpelu nearly doubled the lead minutes later when he broke through on goal; but his effort narrowly missed the target. Ranchers Bees struggled to find a rhythm as Inter Lagos maintained a high pressing game and solid defensive organization. The Kaduna side; owned by Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq; found it difficult to breach the Lagosians' backline.

The victory was sealed in the 70th minute through a well-earned penalty. Akinpelu was fouled inside the area after a clever run; prompting the referee to point to the spot. Captain Bayo Oyedele stepped up and calmly converted the penalty to double his side's advantage. With a two-goal cushion; Inter Lagos managed the final stages of the game effectively to secure their first three points of the competition.

Ranchers Bees coach Ahmed Ahmad admitted post-match that the tournament serves as a learning curve for his young squad. He noted that the experience would be vital as they prepare for their return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) next season. For Inter Lagos; the win sets up a mouth-watering local derby against Sporting Lagos on Friday.

The result means Ranchers Bees are now mathematically out of the title race after suffering two consecutive defeats. Sporting Lagos currently lead the standings with six points; while Inter Lagos move into second place with three points. The final matchday will determine the overall NNL champion; with a N10 million prize at stake for the winner.

Inter Lagos Boost Title Hopes With Clinical 2-0 Victory Over Ranchers Bees

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