*Shola wins MOTM Award
Kwara United Football Club began their 2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) campaign with a goalless draw against Ikorodu City on Matchday 1 decided today, Sunday August 24, 2025, at the Rashidi Yekini Main-Bowl, George Agbazika Innih Stadium, Ilorin.
The Harmony Boys started slowly, but gradually grew into the game, with midfielder Shola Abdulraheem testing Ikorodu’s goalkeeper Michael Atata on three occasions. Atata stood firm between the sticks, denying Abdulraheem with brilliant saves.
In the midfield, Ini Emmanuel and Victory Adeoye impressed with their control and creativity, while the defensive duo of Assistant Captain Kabiru Mohammed and Ibrahim Yahaya kept the visitors at bay with disciplined performances.
The introduction of Alao Mohammed and Babatunde Bright in the second half added more attacking momentum, with Issa Gata coming close through a powerful header, only to be denied again by the inspired Atata.
However, the game was marred by injuries, as Akanni Akeem and Saheed Olaniyi were both stretchered off after sustaining knocks.
Speaking after the match, Kwara United Coach, Tunde Sanni described the encounter as “not a bad game,” insisting that his side deserved to win.
“It was not a bad game. Ikorodu were lucky not to have conceded at least three goals because their goalkeeper saved them today,” Sanni remarked.
Assistant Captain Kabiru Mohammed also expressed disappointment with the result, noting that a single point was not part of the team’s plan.
“Sharing the points was not our intention. We will improve and make sure we convert our chances from the next game,” he assured.
Kwara United will next travel to Port Harcourt for a Matchday 2 clash against Rivers United at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium on Saturday.
Despite the lack of goals, the game was not short of individual brilliance, with AbdulRaheem Shola emerging as the Man of the Match.
The energetic midfielder put up a commanding display, dictating play in the middle of the park and driving his team forward with relentless energy.
Shola’s vision, accurate passes, and ball recovery stood out in a match where both sides struggled to convert their chances. His performance drew applause from the home fans, who hailed him as a shining light for the Harmony Warriors on a day when goals were hard to come by.
The result leaves both sides sharing the spoils, but Shola AbdulRaheem’s outstanding contribution ensured that the Kwara United faithful had something to cheer about.
