LAGOS, NIGERIA — Sporting Lagos coach Bala Buter has said his team deserved more than a draw against Ikorodu City in their Nigeria Premier Football League fixture.
The match ended 1-1 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, on Wednesday. Sporting Lagos took the lead in the first half through a well-worked goal. But Ikorodu City equalised in the second half to share the points.
Buter’s Reaction
Buter spoke after the match. He said his players dominated the game. He said they created more chances and controlled possession. He expressed disappointment that they could not convert their dominance into a win.
“We deserved more than a draw. We played better, we created more chances, and we controlled the game. But football is about goals. We didn’t take our chances, and we paid for it,” Buter said.
First Half Performance
Sporting Lagos started the match brightly. They pressed high and forced Ikorodu City into mistakes. Their goalkeeper was called into action twice. The breakthrough came in the 28th minute when a quick counter-attack ended with a calm finish.
Ikorodu City struggled to find their rhythm in the first half. Their midfield was overrun. Their forwards were isolated. They went into the break trailing 1-0.
Second Half Turnaround
Ikorodu City came out stronger in the second half. They made two substitutions. They pushed more players forward. Their equaliser came in the 67th minute. A cross from the right was headed home by their striker.
Sporting Lagos pushed for a winner. They had two clear chances. One hit the post. The other was saved by the goalkeeper. But the winning goal never came.
What This Means
The draw leaves Sporting Lagos in mid-table. They have now drawn three of their last five matches. Buter said his team must learn to kill off games.
“We have to be more ruthless. We have to take our chances. If we do that, we will win more matches. I believe in this team. We will keep working hard,” he said.
Ikorodu City will be pleased with the point. They have now avoided defeat in their last three matches. Their coach said the team showed character to come from behind.
What Happens Next
Sporting Lagos will play their next match on Sunday. They face a tough away fixture. Ikorodu City will also be in action. They host a top-half team. Both sides will be looking to return to winning ways.
