Nigerian icon Kanu’s Enyimba threaten rookies Ikorodu City despite underdogs tag — Match Preview

Match Preview: Enyimba vs. Ikorodu City – NPFL Matchday 29 Showdown

Nigerian icon Kanu’s Enyimba threaten rookies Ikorodu City despite underdogs tag — Match Preview

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 11:16 - 15.03.2025

Super Eagles legend Nwankwo Kanu's Enyimba remain in bullish form despite facing an in-form Ikorodu City who are flying on their NPFL debut season.

Get ready for a thrilling clash in the Nigerian Premier Football League, NPFL, as Super Eagles legend Nwankwo Kanu’s Enyimba take on the high-flying rookies Ikorodu City this Sunday on Matchday 29.

The Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos, will be buzzing at 5:30 PM Nigerian time as the Oga Boys look to exact revenge on the two-time CAF Champions League winners.

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Despite being underdogs, Enyimba are in bullish form, boldly declaring on social media, “The Elephants are coming,” signalling their intent to trample Ikorodu’s debut season dreams.

When these two sides met earlier on Matchday 9 in Aba, Enyimba edged out a narrow 2-1 victory, leaving Ikorodu City with a score to settle.

Enyimba took all three points in their first-ever game against Ikorodu City.
Enyimba took all three points in their first-ever game against Ikorodu City.

Now, with the home advantage, the Oga Boys are primed to turn the tables.

Ikorodu have been a revelation this season, sitting third in the NPFL standings and boasting the second-best home record, 11 wins, one draw, and two losses in 14 matches, scoring an impressive 31 goals.

Ikorodu City are unstoppable at home
Ikorodu City are unstoppable at home. (Photo Credit: Ikorodu City/X)

Meanwhile, Enyimba, in seventh place, despite a difficult season, have found their stride with back-to-back wins for the first time in six months and remain a formidable force on the road, with three wins and four draws in 14 away games.

The stats paint a picture of a tight contest. Ikorodu City have won three of their last five matches, with one defeat and a draw, matching Enyimba’s recent form of three wins, one draw, and one loss.

Atule's goals life Enyimba back in contention for CAF tickets.

This blockbuster encounter has all the makings of a classic, revenge on the line, contrasting styles, and two teams brimming with confidence.

Will Kanu’s Elephants stampede through Lagos, or will the Oga Boys defend their turf and solidify their status as NPFL contenders?

Ikorodu City's Shola Adelani is one of the stars to watch out for.

Prediction: Likely Winner and Result

While Enyimba’s pedigree and recent resurgence make them a dangerous side, Ikorodu City’s exceptional home form tips the scales in their favour.

The Oga Boys’ attacking ability at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, an average of over 2.2 goals per game at home, suggests they’ll capitalise on their vocal support and familiarity with the pitch.

Nwankwo Kanu and his Enyimba will be hoping for another win.

Enyimba’s away record is solid but not impenetrable, and their underdog status might fuel a spirited fightback, yet Ikorodu’s momentum could prove decisive.

Predicted Result: Ikorodu City 2-1 Enyimba

Expect a close, high-energy battle, with Ikorodu edging it late thanks to their home advantage and hunger for revenge.