Enyimba FC will travel to Lagos this Sunday, March 16, for a crucial NPFL showdown against Ikorodu City FC at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena. The fixture holds special significance for Enyimba duo Junior Lokosa and Ufere Chinedu, who are set to return to familiar territory, having previously played for Sporting Lagos.
With only 10 games remaining in the season, every point is vital. Enyimba are pushing for a top-three finish, while Ikorodu City aim to maintain their impressive home form.
The reverse fixture in Aba saw Enyimba clinch a dramatic 2-1 win with Moses Adukwu’s stoppage-time strike. This time, Ikorodu City will be determined to turn the tables on home soil.
For Lokosa, the upcoming match stirs mixed emotions. The former NPFL Golden Boot winner expressed excitement about playing in a familiar environment but emphasized Enyimba’s focus on securing maximum points.
"Yeah, our next game is against Ikorodu City and it's a stadium I know very well," Lokosa said. "Right now, they are in good shape playing in front of their home fans, and the Lagosians are very supportive. We are going there to give our all because we know our target and what we are looking up to. It won't be an easy game, but I believe with our last two performances, we are coming out with a good spirit and in good form. Our fans should give us the support, and I believe we will come out victorious."
Enyimba’s push for a CAF competition spot remains alive, and Lokosa believes consistency is key in their quest for success.
"The chances of making the top three are still open," he added. "We just need to take our chances both home and away, which I believe we are adjusting to. Hopefully, we would be good."
Despite struggling to find the net since joining Enyimba, Lokosa remains positive about ending his goal drought.
"As a striker, when you miss a great chance, you can be worried, but it's a gradual process," he said. "We are working on it, and I believe we will get better."
Lokosa also praised veteran forward Brown Ideye for his influence on the squad.
"Playing alongside a legend like Brown Ideye is an honour. He’s an amazing and loving person who helps us correct little mistakes. I'm yet to score, but I know the goals will come. I haven't had many games, but that's not an excuse. I can see it coming, and once it starts, it will continue."
For Ikorodu City, the encounter presents a chance to assert their status as NPFL contenders. Their determined display in the first leg proved they are no pushovers, and with their home fans behind them, they’ll be confident of upsetting the nine-time NPFL champions.
With crucial points at stake and emotions running high, Sunday’s clash promises to be a thrilling encounter. Will Lokosa break his Enyimba duck, or can Ikorodu City spring a surprise? Lagos awaits the showdown.
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