2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 30: Ikorodu City Edge Rivers United in Lagos

Posted : 17 March 2026

Ikorodu City FC Head Coach, Bright Ozadegbe, has praised the massive home support after his side secured a crucial 1–0 victory over league leaders Rivers United FC in a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 30 encounter at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

Ozadegbe said the backing from fans played a key role as the “Oga Boys” produced a disciplined performance to defeat the “Pride of Rivers” and strengthen their push for a continental slot.

“It’s always a good feeling to play at home. It’s a team like Rivers, and you come out victorious, so it’s good,” Ozadegbe said after the match.

“It took some time before the goal came. There were chances, but eventually, when it did come, I just told the boys to stay calm and focused when playing against an experienced side.

Rivers United have a very wonderful coach, so we did not need to lose concentration, not even in this game.”

The decisive moment of the Monday night clash came in the 52nd minute when substitute Temitope Folarin scored the only goal of the encounter.

Folarin, who came on immediately after the break in place of academy player Dennis Mse, capitalised on a loose ball from the Rivers United goalkeeper following a goal-bound effort by Salami Farouk to slot home after a brilliant run.

Earlier in the first half, Ikorodu City had dominated possession and created chances but struggled to break down the resolute Rivers United defence as the teams went into the break goalless.

Ozadegbe explained that the club’s strong structure and thriving academy system had helped the team remain competitive despite operating on a relatively modest budget.

“The biggest mystery in the NPFL is Ikorodu City FC. We have a good structure and a well-rounded academy where we train these boys,” he said.

“The philosophy is the same from the academy to the senior team, and that’s why you see players who can step up and meet expectations.”

He reiterated that the club’s target remains securing a place in the league’s continental positions.

“Our ambition is to stay in the green zone of the continental slot, and we will do everything possible not to slip out of it,” he added.

Match-winner Folarin said he was delighted to make an immediate impact after coming off the bench.

“The coach told me to be creative and make a difference. Today I was looking forward to scoring, and I’m grateful it came,” he said.

With the victory, Ikorodu City moved into third place on the NPFL table with 48 points from 13 wins, nine draws, and eight defeats, keeping their continental qualification hopes alive.

Despite the defeat, Rivers United remain top of the table with 52 points, having recorded 14 wins, 10 draws, and five losses so far this season.

Ikorodu City’s narrow victory over Rivers United highlights their growing strength and ambition in the NPFL. With strong home support, disciplined play, and contributions from their academy, the club remains firmly in the race for continental qualification, while Rivers United continues to lead the standings despite the setback.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 30: Ikorodu City Edge Rivers United in Lagos

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