Bright Ozebagbe, head coach of Ikorodu City FC, has set his sights on securing a “good result” when his side travels to face Kano Pillars this weekend in the NPFL.
Ozebagbe expressed satisfaction after his team’s 2–1 home win over Plateau United, which placed Ikorodu City at the top of the league table. He believes that maintaining that form will be crucial, even as the season becomes more demanding.
Acknowledging that things will inevitably get tougher, the coach said:
Looking for the best betting experience in Nigeria this January 2026? The Bet9ja promotion code for January 2026 is YOHAIG. With this exclusive code, new users can claim a generous welcome bonus of up to ₦100,000 on their first deposit. For comprehensive details about the Bet9ja promotion code 2026 in Nigeria, visit https://www.bet9japromotioncode.com.ng/. Ready to elevate your betting experience? The YOHAIG Bet9ja Promotion Code 2026 unlocks exciting benefits. Start with just ₦100 as your minimum deposit! Begin your betting journey today by using the Bet9ja login signup and entering the Bet9ja bonus code when creating your account. Enjoy an impressive 170 per cent multiple boost bonus plus a free bet option for either Bet9ja sport or Bet9ja casino. To become a valued Bet9ja customer, simply complete the registration process here. Remember that terms and conditions apply when registering with Bet9ja to receive your bonus.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
“We are right now where we are on the log. Things will definitely get difficult … we’ll keep preparing them for that expected situation … even as we continue to take everything one game at a time.” Despite celebrating the win, Ozebagbe admitted he was disappointed that his side conceded at home — clean sheets remain a priority. He noted:
“We do not want to concede … our objective … is that we do not want to concede as we did last season.”
Reflecting on the Plateau match, Ozebagbe said he saw lessons: his team lost concentration at times, and while they showed attacking sharpness, they must remain compact.
He concluded by affirming that Ikorodu City will go to Kano determined to show resilience:
“We know what they (Pillars) can do, but we plan to get a good result there we just have to keep working hard.”
Editorial
When Bright Ozebagbe talks about chasing a “good result” in Kano, he is not merely talking about points — he is articulating belief. For a relatively young top-flight team like Ikorodu City, ambition must be scaffolded by realism, and this match offers exactly that a chance to prove that they can back up their home form with courage on the road.
The task is delicate. Pillars, though struggling in the table, are never easy opponents at home. The pressure will be on Ozebagbe’s team not just to defend well, but to impose themselves tactically and mentally. The coach’s own admission that they must improve concentration and tighten up at the back shows he understands the fine margins.
Yet Ozebagbe’s strength lies in his measured temperance. Instead of floating on the high of a recent win, he is preparing his team for the inevitable difficulty ahead. That mindset focus on one game at a time, learn from each performance, refuse to be complacent is the hallmark of managers who build, not just survive.
If Ikorodu City emerge from Kano with something positive, it will be more than a result. It will be a statement: that they belong, that they can stretch, and that their promise is not limited to their own pitch.
Did You Know?
- Tough Opposition: Kano Pillars have historically been a difficult side for away teams to beat, particularly at the Sani Abacha Stadium.
- Ozebagbe’s Return: Bright Ozebagbe recently returned to Ikorodu City as Technical Adviser.
- Defensive Worries: Despite recent wins, Ozebagbe admitted his team conceded at home — something he is keen to fix.
- Big Ambitions: Ikorodu City were promoted from the NNL not long ago, and their current campaign reflects a club pushing to establish itself among Nigeria’s elite.
- Learning from Losses: In their NPFL debut against Kano Pillars, Ikorodu City lost 3–0, a result Ozebagbe later described as a valuable learning experience.
