Ikorodu City Football Club is set to begin their second season in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with a high-stakes away clash against President Federation Cup holders, Kwara United.
The Lagos-based club, affectionately called the Oga Boys, will face the Afonja Warriors at the Ilorin Township Stadium in what many analysts are tipping as one of the standout fixtures of Matchday One. The encounter is not just a test of strength for Ikorodu City but a statement opportunity as they aim to build on their impressive debut season in the top flight.
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Last season, the Oga Boys made a bold entry into the NPFL, stunning pundits and fans alike with a fearless style of play that saw them finish just outside continental qualification. Their near miss, especially the heartbreak in their penultimate fixture against Remo Stars, has only heightened the hunger within the squad and their ever-passionate supporters.
Ahead of the 2025/2026 campaign, significant changes have shaped the team. Head coach Nurudeen Aweroro has departed by mutual consent and has since joined 3SC of Ibadan, alongside club director Tobi Adepoju, who is now the Sporting Director of the Oluyole Warriors.
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In a compelling twist of fate, the club has reappointed Bright Ozagbabe as Technical Adviser. Coach Bright is no stranger to the Ikorodu City family, having masterminded their promotion to the NPFL two seasons ago. Although he exited after Matchday Five last season, his return signals renewed ambition and tactical stability.
Reinforcements have also come on the pitch. The club has boosted its squad with promising young talents and promoted standout performers from its academy, which recently secured promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL). This strategic blend of youth and experience underlines the club’s long-term vision.
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Last season saw Ikorodu City finish fourth in the NPFL and reach the semi-finals of the President Federation Cup. With renewed energy, fresh leadership, and a deeper squad, expectations are soaring in Lagos and beyond. Fans believe this could be the season their beloved club claims silverware or secures a long-awaited continental berth.
Matchday One NPFL Fixtures (2025/2026):
- Abia Warriors vs Kano Pillars
- Wikki Tourists vs Plateau United
- Katsina United vs Warri Wolves
- Rangers International vs Kun Khalifa FC
- Remo Stars vs Rivers United
- Kwara United vs Ikorodu City
- El Kanemi Warriors vs Bendel Insurance
- Shooting Stars vs Bayelsa United
- Barau FC vs Enyimba FC
- Niger Tornadoes vs Nasarawa United
