Unbreakable! Ikorodu City smash Nasarawa United to get revenge, extend unbeaten run to 23 games

Ikorodu City delivered a powerful statement on Sunday evening in Lagos, defeating league leaders Nasarawa United 2-0 to successfully avenge a previous defeat last season and extend their extraordinary home unbeaten run to 23 matches.

The victory, secured by goals in both halves, ended Nasarawa’s impressive seven-game undefeated streak and moved Ikorodu into the top half of the table.

The fixture was steeped in history; Nasarawa United were the last team to defeat Ikorodu City on their home turf back in November 2024, a loss that ironically spurred the start of this current, historic run of resilience.

Ikorodu City, also known as the Oga Boys, driven by the chance for redemption, played with exceptional urgency from the first whistle.

Their high-press strategy paid off early when debutant Chidera Oparaocha marked his first start with his first goal in the 14th minute, brilliantly turning in a cross from captain Waliu Ojetoye.

Despite missing no fewer than three big chances, the hosts maintained control. The insurance goal came in the 68th minute, a familiar moment for the home crowd: Joseph Arumala powerfully headed in a cross from Dada Oladimeji. Arumala’s knack for scoring crucial goals at home sealed a deserved three points for the Lagos side.

The 23-match unbeaten streak transforms Ikorodu City’s home ground into arguably the toughest venue in the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL). 

Their success is rooted not just in tactical discipline but in a strong connection with their fans, creating an atmosphere that visibly pressures opposing teams.

For Nasarawa United, who had been riding high at the top of the table on a seven-match unbeaten run, this was a rare structural failure. Ikorodu’s relentless tempo and verticality successfully dismantled the compact, efficient defence that had defined Nasarawa’s season.

While Nasarawa United remain the league leaders, this defeat is a clear setback, potentially opening up the title race, with Shooting Stars now second. 

For Ikorodu City, the victory is a massive confidence booster. Their climb to fifth place suggests a renewed commitment to a title challenge, turning a season of promise into one of tangible contention. 

This result demonstrates that Ikorodu have successfully turned the pain of that 2024 defeat into a powerful, winning identity.

Ikorodu City's fortress stands tall and unbroken. Sunday's dominant performance was a definitive act of revenge and a clear warning to the rest of the league: any team looking to win the NPFL title must now reckon with the intimidating force of the 'Oga Boys' in Lagos.