Ikorodu City FC continued their late-season surge in the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Bayelsa United on Matchday 36 at the Ikorodu City Arena on Wednesday evening. The rollercoaster clash featured early drama, long-range screamers, and a late red card as the Oga Boys clinched three vital points in their push up the NPFL table.
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⚽ Fast Start and First-Half Fireworks
The hosts wasted no time asserting dominance, taking the lead in just the 2nd minute as Okechukwu Nwanna opened his account for the club. The forward timed his run perfectly to head home a pinpoint delivery from team captain Waliu Ojetoye.
Bayelsa United responded swiftly, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up that led to an own goal by goalkeeper Oluwadamilare Aina in the 11th minute. The early equalizer added intensity to an already feisty fixture.
Ikorodu City regained the lead in the 19th minute thanks to a sensational long-range strike by Tosin Oyedokun, sending the home crowd into raptures. But once again, Bayelsa United leveled the score, this time in the 26th minute, ensuring the two sides went into halftime tied at 2-2.
Tactical Changes Pay Dividends
Manager Adewale Salami made strategic substitutions during the break, introducing Ayomide Cole and Moses Shodeinde to inject pace and structure into the midfield. The impact was immediate.
In the 62nd minute, Ikorodu City’s attacking pressure paid off. A deflected cross from Austin found Adelani Shola, who coolly nodded the ball into the net to restore the lead at 3-2.
Despite Bayelsa United enjoying more possession and creating more set-piece opportunities in the second half, Ikorodu City’s defense held firm. The Oga Boys nearly extended their advantage in the 87th minute, but Cole’s fierce shot smashed against the woodwork.
Late Drama and Final Whistle
Bayelsa United’s frustrations boiled over in stoppage time, as they were reduced to ten men following a straight red card. Ikorodu City introduced Nasiru Suleiman to solidify the midfield and successfully managed the closing moments to seal a memorable victory.
Don’t Miss: Ikorodu City FC Player Stats & Profiles
Match Stats at a Glance
| Statistic | Ikorodu City | Bayelsa United |
|---|---|---|
| Ball Possession | 52% | 48% |
| Shots (On Target) | 12 (7) | 3 (2) |
| Corners | 4 | 5 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 | 5 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 1 |
Read More: Full NPFL Matchday 36 Roundup
What It Means for the NPFL Standings
This result strengthens Ikorodu City FC’s position in the league as the 2024/25 NPFL season draws to an exciting conclusion. With just two games left, momentum is firmly with the Lagos-based side as they aim for a strong finish.
For Bayelsa United, the defeat is a setback in an otherwise competitive campaign. They’ll need to regroup quickly ahead of their next fixture to keep pace with mid-table rivals.
What’s Next?
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