In an intense Week 4 matchup of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Professional Football League NPFL season, Nasarawa United triumphed over Ikorodu City with a 2-1 win at the Onikan Stadium. The game was a closely contested battle, with both teams eager to improve their standings in the league.
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The second half saw Nasarawa United regain the lead in the 64th minute when Kabir Balogun capitalized on a defensive error to secure the winning goal. Despite relentless pressure from Ikorodu City in the final moments, Nasarawa United’s defence held firm, and their goalkeeper made crucial saves to preserve the victory.
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After the match, Balogun expressed his satisfaction, stating, We had to fight for every ball. This win gives us confidence to keep pushing for more points in the next games. Anas Yusuf echoed this sentiment, adding that scoring first helped set the tone for their resilient performance.
Ikorodu City, despite their efforts, suffered their second home defeat of the season, leaving them with challenges to address as the season progresses.
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Editorial
The thrilling encounter between Nasarawa United and Ikorodu City highlights the competitive spirit of the NPFL, where teams are everything on the pitch to secure crucial points. Nasarawa United’s determination to bounce back after being pegged back by an equalizer demonstrates their resilience and ambition to climb the league table.
Nasarawa United took the lead in the 44th minute, thanks to a well placed shot by Anas Yusuf, giving the visitors a 1-0 advantage just before halftime. However, Ikorodu City quickly responded in stoppage time, with ThankGod Chilaka equalizing in the 45+3 minute, marking his team’s first ever NPFL goal.
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Ikorodu City, despite their valiant fight, will need to regroup and find ways to convert their promising play into positive results. Their inability to secure a win at home could weigh on them if not addressed, but ThankGod Chilaka’s historic goal is a bright spot for the team as they continue to find their footing in the league.
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As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how these teams adjust and capitalize on their strengths while addressing their weaknesses. The NPFL remains unpredictable, and performances like this are a reminder that every match can swing either way.
Did You Know?
Nasarawa United has a reputation for producing strong performances in critical NPFL matches, often capitalizing on defensive errors to secure wins.
Ikorodu City is one of the newer teams in the NPFL, and ThankGod Chilaka’s goal was their first ever in Nigeria’s top football division.
The Nigeria Professional Football League NPFL is regarded as one of the most competitive football leagues in Africa, known for its passionate fans and unpredictable outcomes.
Onikan Stadium, where the match was held, is one of Lagos’s most [iconic sports](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/health-and-fitness/ideye-eze-atule-doubtful-for-enyimba-clash-against-nasarawa-united/) venues, often hosting crucial league matches.
[Nasarawa United’s](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/nigerian-premier-league/anas-yusufs-9th-goal-of-npfl-season-lifts-nasarawa-united-in-standings/) win puts them in a stronger position in the NPFL standings, boosting their chances of a successful season.