Enyimba FC stretched their unbeaten start to the 2025 NPFL season to six games following a pulsating 1-1 draw against Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Sunday.
The fixture lived up to its billing, serving a blend of grit, flair, and drama that kept fans on the edge of their seats. For Ikorodu City, it was a statement of intent against one of the league’s most dominant forces, while for the nine-time champions, it was another reminder of the resilience required to navigate a long campaign.
Goals in Quick Succession
The People’s Elephant drew first blood in the 13th minute when Joel Ezra unleashed a thunderous strike from distance. A wicked deflection left the Ikorodu goalkeeper stranded, sending the away supporters into raptures.
But the Aba giants’ celebrations were short-lived. Just four minutes later, Joseph Arumala punished a rare defensive lapse, sneaking into the box to coolly slot home the equalizer for the “Oga Boys.” From there, the game opened up into a thrilling end-to-end contest.
Missed Chances and Narrow Escapes
Both teams carved out clear opportunities, but wastefulness in front of goal told the story. Enyimba nearly snatched all three points in stoppage time when substitute Mujeeb Odufeso found himself one-on-one with the Ikorodu keeper, only to fluff his lines at the decisive moment.
Reactions From the Camp
Despite the disappointment of not securing a win, Enyimba’s head coach, Stanley Eguma, chose to highlight the positives.
“It was a good game although we wanted all three points, but a draw isn’t a bad result. We knew Ikorodu play well at home, so we prepared well to win the game. The league is still young, and we’ll keep working harder. To be champions, you must get results everywhere you go.”
Stand-in captain Kalu Nweke echoed his coach’s words, emphasizing the team’s growing mentality.
“We knew it was going to be a tough match, and that’s exactly what we got. But from day one, the coach has instilled in us what it takes to be champions, and that mentality is what has brought us this far.”
What’s Next?
With six matches gone, Enyimba remain unbeaten and firmly lodged in the upper reaches of the NPFL standings. Attention now shifts to their next outing a high-stakes clash against bitter rivals Rivers United at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba.
With pride, points, and bragging rights on the line, the People’s Elephant will look to extend their momentum in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the season.
