Rivio Ayemwenre of Ikorodu City has been named the NPFL Player of Week 12 after scoring a decisive late goal to secure a 2-1 victory over Shooting Stars in the Southwest Derby. The dramatic winner came in the 89th minute at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, propelling Ikorodu City to triumph in their first ever NPFL Southwest Derby.
The match began with Shooting Stars taking an early lead, courtesy of a goal from Anthony Okachi, a former Ikorodu City player. Ikorodu City equalised in the second half, setting the stage for Ayemwenre’s heroics. His strike against Shooting Stars goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal sent fans into rapturous celebrations and solidified a memorable chapter in Ikorodu City’s budding history, having been established in 2022.
This performance brings Ayemwenre’s season tally to four goals, underlining his importance to the team and cementing his place as a standout performer in the league.
Editorial
The Southwest Derby between Ikorodu City and Shooting Stars proved that football is more than just a game it’s a source of pride, history, and emerging rivalries. Rivio Ayemwenre’s late winner was not just a goal it was a statement of intent from a young club carving out its place in Nigerian football.
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Ikorodu City founded merely two years ago, has shown immense promise in challenging well established teams like Shooting Stars. Their growth signifies a shift in the NPFL, where new entrants can make a lasting impact. Ayemwenre’s performance epitomises this spirit, combining skill, determination, and a knack for seizing critical moments.
As fans, we celebrate such narratives because they highlight the beauty of the league where the underdog can triumph and new rivalries are born. This victory is a reminder that with the right vision and commitment, emerging teams can not only compete but thrive, creating moments that define the league’s future.
Looking ahead, Ikorodu City’s success sets an example for other young teams. By nurturing talents like Ayemwenre and investing in the local game, Nigerian football can continue to grow, offering more stories of perseverance and triumph.
Did You Know?
- The Southwest Derby was Ikorodu City’s first ever regional showdown in the NPFL, marking a historic milestone for the team.
- Anthony Okachi, who scored for Shooting Stars, previously played for Ikorodu City, adding an emotional subplot to the match.
- Ikorodu City was established in 2022, making it one of the youngest teams competing in the NPFL.
- Rivio Ayemwenre’s goal tally of four this season highlights his growing reputation as a reliable forward.
- The Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, the venue for this derby, has a rich history of hosting memorable football matches in Nigeria.
