“Three points in Aba? It can only be God.” Those were the simple, heartfelt words of Bright Ozebagbe after Ikorodu City FC recorded one of their most memorable results of the season with a famous away 1-0 victory over Enyimba FC.
Facing a club long associated with dominance on home soil, Ikorodu City travelled to Aba with belief rather than fear — and returned with all three points.
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For Ozebagbe, the result represented more than just a win; it was a moment of gratitude, affirmation and growing confidence in his squad.
“Three points on the road — it can only be God,” the coach said after the match. “It’s always valuable to pick up maximum points away from a giant like Enyimba. The boys showed discipline, hunger and top performance. Now the focus stays sharp. On to the next one.”
The contest itself unfolded with patience and intensity. Ikorodu City named a line-up featuring a blend of returnees and first-timers — a bold selection that ultimately paid off.
Daniel Idoko made his debut in his second spell at the club, Aliu Salawudeen featured in front of home fans for the first time, while Jaguar Uche returned after serving a suspension.
Tomisin Adebayo also made a carefully managed comeback following two months on the sidelines.
Clear chances were limited in the early stages, but the visitors gradually settled. In the 24th minute, Chidera Oparaocha went close with a header from Elijah Ujunwa’s cross.
Eight minutes later, Oparaocha proved decisive, winning a penalty with intelligent movement in the box.
Joseph Arumala stepped up and calmly converted, scoring his seventh goal of the campaign to give Ikorodu City a narrow advantage at the break.
The second half demanded composure as Enyimba pressed in search of an equaliser. Tactical changes followed, and Ikorodu City were forced to defend with discipline and resolve.
Just when it seemed the visitors might have to settle for a slender victory, Arumala produced a moment of individual brilliance.
Receiving a pass from Tosin Oyedokun just beyond the halfway line, he surged forward, beat two defenders and drilled a low shot into the corner to silence Aba and seal the result.
The win carried added significance for Ikorodu City, as they moved to the top of the log and better their previous visit to the same venue ended in heartbreak after conceding late in a 2–1 defeat.
This time, there was no late collapse — only belief, resilience and reward.
As the Nigeria Premier Football League season gathers momentum, Ikorodu City continue to announce themselves not just as contenders, but as a side capable of standing tall anywhere. I
In Aba, against all odds, they did just that — and in the words of their coach, it could only have been God.
