Igbajo United Football Club began their Nigeria National League (NNL) campaign with a narrow 1-0 loss to 1472 FC at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos. Despite the defeat, head coach Omoniyi Muideen, popularly known as “Coach Onile,” remains optimistic about his team’s prospects in the league.
The match, which marked Igbajo United’s debut in Nigeria’s second-tier league, saw the newly assembled squad give a spirited performance. The team created their first major chance in the 22nd minute when new signing Rilwan Sadiq’s powerful shot was expertly saved by the 1472 FC goalkeeper.
The game remained evenly poised until the 74th minute when 1472 FC broke the deadlock, leaving Igbajo United goalkeeper Uche Stephen, who had earlier made a stunning save in the 44th minute, with no chance.
Speaking with Futball Naija after the match, Coach Onile expressed his satisfaction with his team’s performance, praising their adherence to his tactical instructions. “Honestly, I’m impressed with my boys because they played to the instructions I gave them. This is our first match in the Nigeria National League, and the boys gave a good account of themselves,” he said.
Coach Onile acknowledged the challenges his team faced adapting to the artificial turf, a surface they had not trained on since beginning their preseason preparations in August. “We are used to grass, so we found it difficult playing on the turf. This is not an excuse, but just my observation of the game,” he explained.
About the officiating, Coach Onile said; “the match officials did a wonderful job in the first 45 minutes, but in the second half, the game was one-sided. I guess the home team enjoyed the benefits of being at home,” he remarked.
Looking ahead, Coach Onile expressed confidence in his team’s ability to bounce back. “I’m happy with the performance of my boys, and I’m certain that they will come back stronger against Beyond Limit FC at home. We will be playing our second match of the season at home, and I’m sure of getting all three points by the grace of God.”
Igbajo United will host Beyond Limit FA in their next fixture, hoping to secure their first win of the season in front of their home fans.
