Ikorodu City FC, located north-east of Lagos, boasts arguably the most fascinating squad in the Nigeria Premier Football League. Unlike many NPFL clubs, Ikorodu City prioritises youth development. The club plays a 4-3-3 formation and currently sits third on the league table, an impressive feat.
Goalkeeper Michael Atata has been a standout performer this season. Contrary to some reports calling him a teenager, Atata is an experienced custodian who played senior football for Port Harcourt City FC in 2019. Last season, the goalkeeping spot was problematic for Ikorodu, but Atata has been commanding and brilliant in goal, possibly the league’s best so far.
The defence features several academy graduates. Ayomide Abatan began the season as first-choice left-back but was sidelined by injury, with fellow academy product Gift Udoh stepping into the role. Both have impressed alongside right-back Waliu Ojetoye. The central defensive pairing of Junior Chibuzor Christian and Alfred Odinaka, both newly discovered talents from grassroots football, have been near sensational. Odinaka came from FC Robo International, while Christian remains a mystery but is highly promising.
In midfield, the preferred trio is Kelechi Onwe, Folarin Temitope, and Tosin Oyedokun, with Temitope as the anchor. Onwe’s elegance makes him a fan favourite, while Oyedokun offers attacking flair, although his form has dipped since last season. Academy graduate Ibifubara Dagogo is challenging for a spot and has already shown promise, scoring a memorable goal last November. Newcomers Rasheed Owolabi and Tomisin Adebayo have also impressed in their NPFL debut.
Striker Uchechukwu Onyemaechi has struggled for goals, but the attack has improved since Christian Chidera Oparaocha joined in October. Oparaocha, who had a stint in Armenia last season, has contributed well. The squad’s star is winger Joseph Arumala, known for his dazzling dribbling and energy. Arumala, a former Nigeria U-17 player, primarily plays on the left wing. The right-wing spot has been more unsettled, but when fit, Cole Ayomide is the preferred choice. Other options include Naheem Odugbemi and Arumala himself.
Additional attacking options include Goodluck Anuba, who has already scored his first NPFL goal after moving from Dominant Force FC, and experienced striker Alade Muyiwa Balogun, who has over 125 NPFL appearances. Academy graduate Musa Malik also shows potential.
Top scorers for Ikorodu City FC this season are Joseph Arumala with five goals, Christian Chidera Oparaocha with three, and Tosin Oyedokun with two.
Ikorodu City FC’s commitment to youth and exciting football style make them one of the NPFL’s most captivating teams to watch.
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