Ozebagbe Marks 51 NPFL Games as Ikorodu City Bounce Back to Beat Kwara United

Ikorodu City head coach Bright Ozebagbe has identified youth development as his biggest achievement in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), as he reaches the milestone of 51 matches in charge of the Lagos-based club.

The milestone comes after Ikorodu City returned to winning ways with a 2–0 victory over Kwara United in their Matchday 8 encounter on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos.

Captain Farouk Salami opened the scoring inside two minutes, heading home from Ujuwan Elijah’s long throw-in before Ikechukwu Junior doubled the advantage in the 36th minute after connecting with a cross from Olumide Akinwande.

Kwara United’s task became more difficult when Saheed Olaniyi was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, while Ikorodu City also handed academy graduate Basit Ayinde his NPFL debut late in the game.

The victory followed a 2–0 away defeat to Rivers United in Port Harcourt on October 4, giving Ozebagbe a positive result in his reported 51st match at the helm.

Youth Development Tops Ozegbabe’s Achievements

Reflecting on his time at Ikorodu City, Ozebagbe said the progress of young players and their emergence in the NPFL remain among the most rewarding aspects of his coaching career.

“As a coach, being able to see these young players developing and playing in the league is a big highlight,” he said.

The coach, who made his managerial debut against Kano Pillars, has recorded 19 wins, 14 draws and 18 defeats across 51 matches, according to the figures provided.

For Ozebagbe, however, success extends beyond the final score, with the steady improvement of his players providing a significant measure of progress.

“It is a memorable feeling every time, regardless of the result, knowing the boys and the team are better than the previous game,” he explained.

The introduction of academy graduate Ayinde against Kwara United offered a practical example of the pathway from youth development to senior football that the coach values.

Ozebagbe Explains Departure and Return

Ozebagbe also addressed questions surrounding his earlier departure from Ikorodu City after six matches in charge, insisting that he was not dismissed.

“I was never sacked; I resigned,” he clarified.

Reflecting on his return, the coach said his circumstances had not changed significantly but acknowledged that he had developed a better understanding of managing individuals within the squad.

“Nothing changed. I just know better how to deal with individuals,” he added.

The former footballer explained that his passion for teaching and helping players improve influenced his decision to pursue coaching.

He also acknowledged the frustration that comes when a team performs well but fails to secure the desired result, highlighting the challenge of translating good performances into points.

Remi Earns Praise as Goalkeeper Michael Awaits Recognition

The Ikorodu City manager expressed satisfaction with the performances of his players, particularly Remi, while predicting that goalkeeper Michael would receive greater recognition in the future.

“Yes, Remi did so well, and Michael, the goalkeeper, will have his time soon,” Ozegbabe said.

His comments underline his confidence in the squad’s potential as Ikorodu City continue their campaign, with player development remaining central to his ambitions.

Ikorodu City Target Greater Consistency

The victory over Kwara United provides Ikorodu City with an opportunity to build momentum after their defeat to Rivers United.

For Ozebagbe, the immediate challenge is to maintain consistency, improve the team’s results and continue giving emerging talents opportunities to establish themselves in the top flight.

Having reached 51 matches in charge, the coach will hope that his experience and improved understanding of his players translate into a stronger NPFL campaign.

While results remain an important measure of progress, Ozegbabe’s emphasis on youth development suggests that his ambitions extend beyond the league table to building a team capable of sustaining growth and competing more consistently.