Ikorodu victory blows NPFL title race wide open

Ikorodu City delivered a stunning 1-0 victory over Rivers United at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, on Monday, in a match that has dramatically reshaped the Nigeria Premier Football League title race, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The first half ended goalless despite chances at either end, with both teams probing for an opener.

Rivers United, who had appeared on course to run away with the league, were unable to break down Ikorodu’s defence before the interval.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 52nd minute when substitute Folarin Temitope capitalised on a rebound from goalkeeper Rashid Owolabi to slot home following Salami Farouk’s initial effort.

Temitope’s immediate impact proved decisive, handing the home side all three points.

Ikorodu made further changes in the second half, introducing Chinedu Akuvuo for his debut and adjusting their midfield and attack to preserve the lead while Rivers responded with substitutions of their own, bringing on Iyowuna Douglas and Timothy Zachariah, but could not find an equaliser despite sustained pressure.

The win is a major boost for the Oga Boys, moving them to 48 points and into third place, overtaking Nasarawa United and Shooting Stars, who are on 47 points, as they chase continental qualification.

Rivers remain top with 51 points, but the gap has narrowed and Enugu Rangers, also on 51 points and unbeaten in their last seven games, are closing in.

The Pride of Rivers will face Niger Tornadoes in their final outstanding game on Thursday, a match that could determine whether more pressure mounts on Finidi George’s side in the title run-in.

The result at Onikan has opened up the championship race after 30 games, ensuring the closing weeks of the season will be closely contested.

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