Kwara United FC were held to a goalless draw by newly promoted Ikorodu City in the opening fixture of the 2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the George Agbazika Innih Stadium, Ilorin, on Sunday.
Despite the presence of Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq among the home supporters, the Harmony Boys could not break down their resilient visitors from Lagos, who impressed with tactical discipline and smart organisation.
Ikorodu City’s goalkeeper, Michael Atata, was the standout performer, pulling off a series of saves to deny Kwara United midfielder Shola Abdulraheem and striker Issa Gata. His heroics earned praise even from opposing fans who applauded his composure under pressure.
Both coaches hailed the quality of the contest, describing it as evidence of progress in the NPFL.
“Kwara United is not a small team, and just like us, they parade a youthful and mobile squad,” Ikorodu City’s Technical Adviser, Bright Ozebagbe, told reporters. He described his side as “a project still in the making,” but one determined to bring fresh ideas to the league.
Ikorodu also caught attention with their use of modern pitch-side communication gadgets, allowing coaches to synchronise analytics in real time with head coach Ali Kandil.
Kwara United started sluggishly but grew into the game, controlling midfield through Ini Emmanuel and Victory Adeoye. Assistant captain Kabiru Mohammed and Ibrahim Yahaya were solid in defence, while substitutes Alao Mohammed and Babatunde Bright added attacking spark after the break. Gata’s late header, however, was parried away brilliantly by Atata.
The hosts also suffered setbacks as Akanni Akeem and Saheed Olaniyi were stretchered off with injuries.
Kwara United coach, Tunde Sanni, rued missed opportunities. “Ikorodu were lucky not to concede at least three goals because their goalkeeper saved them today,” he said.
Assistant captain Kabiru Mohammed was equally disappointed. “Sharing the points was not our plan. We must improve and take our chances in the next game,” he vowed.
Kwara United next face Rivers United away at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt, on Saturday.
