2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 26 Preview: Seek redemption as leaders Ikorodu City storm Aba

Posted : 14 February 2026

There’s a different kind of tension in Aba this weekend as Nigeria’s most decorated club, Enyimba International FC, prepare to confront the surprise pace-setters of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League: Ikorodu City FC in a mouth-watering Match Day 26 encounter.

For the People’s Elephant, this fixture is more than just another league game. It is an opportunity to steady a turbulent campaign and remind the footballing nation why Aba remains one of Nigeria’s most feared grounds.

It has been an unconvincing ride for the nine-time league champions. High expectations quickly gave way to inconsistent performances, culminating in the departure of former head coach Stanley Eguma.

The baton was handed to Ayeni, but results have yet to reflect a meaningful turnaround. Enyimba currently sit 13th on the table with 31 points from 25 matches: eight wins, seven draws, and 10 losses.

For a club accustomed to title races, this mid-table struggle is unfamiliar territory.

A home clash against the league leaders therefore presents both a challenge and a lifeline.

While Enyimba search for rhythm, Ikorodu City arrive in Aba brimming with confidence.

The Lagos-based side climbed to the summit of the NPFL standings after a commanding 2–0 victory over Niger Tornadoes, taking their tally to 41 points from 25 matches. They sit top of the log ahead of Rivers United on goal difference, although Rivers United have four games in hand.

Coach Bright Ozebagbe has continually emphasized unity and belief within his squad — a message that appears to be resonating strongly.

“The work has only just begun. Staying focused on the mission with a strong belief. Onwards together till the end. Come on, OgaBoys!”

Their earlier 1–1 draw with Enyimba in Lagos showed they can stand toe-to-toe with the Aba giants. Now comes the tougher assignment — proving it on Enyimba’s turf.

Adding further intrigue is Ikorodu City’s new attacking reinforcement. Striker Chinedu Akuvuo has been unveiled after completing a move from Finnish side Pallo-Lirolt.

As the title race intensifies, depth in attack could prove decisive.

For Enyimba: Pride, stability, and a push back toward the top half; however, for Ikorodu City: consolidating leadership and proving their title credentials away from home.

Aba is historically hostile to visiting teams. But this Ikorodu side has built its campaign on fearlessness.

Match Day 26 promises intensity, narrative, and possibly a defining moment in the title race. Will experience triumph, or will belief continue to rewrite the script? All eyes turn to Aba.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 26 Preview: Seek redemption as leaders Ikorodu City storm Aba

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