By Isoken Oduware
Ikorodu City returned to winning ways in the Nigeria Premier Football League on Sunday with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Kwara United at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos.
The decisive moment came as early as the fifth minute when Samuel Ezekiel rose highest to nod home a well-weighted cross from Jaguar Uche, handing the hosts an early advantage.
Kwara United responded positively after conceding, gradually growing into the game through the attacking efforts of Akeem Akanni, Johnmark Aule and Babatunde Bright. Akanni tested Ikorodu goalkeeper Michael Atata with a fierce strike, while Aule’s rebound effort drifted just wide.
In the second half, Kwara introduced Eze Ogbodo, Mahe Alege and Mustapha Salisu in a bid to find an equaliser. Despite improved tempo and sustained pressure, the visitors were unable to penetrate Ikorodu’s disciplined backline.
The win moves the Oga Boys to 35 points from 21 matches, consolidating their third-place position on the NPFL table. Kwara United remain 16th on 24 points and will face Rivers United in their next outing.
Meanwhile, Rivers United strengthened their grip at the top of the table with a narrow 1–0 home victory over Remo Stars. The visitors were reduced to 10 men in the 50th minute following the dismissal of Chilekwu Chigozie. Remo held firm for much of the contest but eventually succumbed in the 80th minute when Okon Aniekeme struck the winning goal.
Rivers United now lead the standings with 41 points, four clear of second-placed Abia Warriors, who defeated Kano Pillars 1–0.
Elsewhere on matchday 21, Bendel Insurance claimed a dramatic 3–2 win over El-Kanemi Warriors, Bayelsa United beat Shooting Stars 2–0 through goals from Peter Ebimobowei and Chinedu Emmanuel, while Plateau United edged Wikki Tourists 1–0 courtesy of Temitope Vincent’s effort.
Nasarawa United defeated Niger Tornadoes 2–1, while Enyimba and Barau settled for a goalless draw in coach Deji Ayeni’s first match in charge of the Aba giants.
Abia Warriors remain strong title contenders in fourth place with 35 points, while Bendel Insurance are fifth on 32 points after a steady resurgence. At the bottom of the table, Khalifat sit 20th with 18 points, while Remo Stars have slipped to 15th amid a disappointing title defence.
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