Ikorodu City delivered a commanding performance as they thrashed Kano Pillars 4-1 in the 20th round of the Nigerian Premier League (NPFL), which resumed yesterday in Lagos.
The match had barely begun when the home fans erupted in celebration. Just two minutes in, Adelani Shola found himself in the right place at the right time, clinically finishing past the goalkeeper to give Ikorodu City an early lead. The stadium buzzed with excitement as the underdogs looked determined to make history.
Pillars, still finding their rhythm, struggled to contain the relentless attacks from their hosts. In the 27th minute, Uzondu Harrison doubled the lead, latching onto a well-placed pass and slotting the ball into the net. The visitors were stunned as this wasn’t the same Ikorodu City they had comfortably beaten 3-0 earlier in the season.
SPONSOR AD
Just before halftime, a glimmer of hope arrived for the away side. Abba Adam, one of Pillars’ most reliable goal-scorers, pulled one back, making it 2-1. It was his fourth goal of the season, and for a moment, it seemed as though the visitors could mount a comeback.
But any hopes of a revival were crushed in the second half. Ikorodu City, playing with confidence and flair, pressed forward relentlessly. The pressure paid off when an unfortunate own goal from Harrison Austin restored Ikorodu City’s two-goal advantage. As if that wasn’t enough, Ayomide Cole put the final nail in Pillars’ coffin, scoring the fourth goal and sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Elsewhere, defending champions Enugu Rangers suffered yet another blow, falling 2-1 to El Kanemi Warriors. The loss dropped them to sixth place with 31 points, while El Kanemi climbed to fourth with 32.
Remo Stars, the league leaders, also delivered drama of their own. Down 2-0 against Abia Warriors, they staged a remarkable comeback to snatch a 3-2 victory, with Franck Mawuena rising highest to head home the winner in the 54th minute. They now sit comfortably at the top of the table with 42 points, eight points clear of their closest rivals.
Meanwhile, Bayelsa United hammered Sunshine Stars 4-1 to move up to 11th, while Akwa United and Lobi Stars played out a 1-1 draw in Uyo, with both sides desperate to avoid relegation.
Sponsored
Update: In 2025, Nigerians have been approved to earn US Dollars as salary while living in Nigeria.
Click here to learn how it works.
Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.
