Ozebagbe demands focus in Ikorodu continental chase
May 10, 2026 12:45 am
Ikorodu City players (File photo)
By Olamide Abe
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RIkorodu City head coach Bright Ozebagbe has challenged his players to maintain their focus and belief as the club pushes for a historic continental qualification place and a possible Nigeria Premier Football League title finish, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Ozebagbe issued the rallying call after Ikorodu City strengthened their ambitions with an impressive 3-1 victory over Wikki Tourists in the NPFL.
The coach praised his side’s display, commending the players for their intensity, determination and quality throughout the encounter as the Oga Boys continued their strong finish to the campaign.
“Outstanding performance from the boys — character, intensity, and quality from start to finish,” Ozebagbe said.
The tactician also expressed pride after guiding Ikorodu City beyond the 100-goal mark in the NPFL, describing the achievement as a reflection of the hard work invested behind the scenes since the club’s rise to the top flight.
“Equally proud to lead this team to 100+ NPFL goals, a milestone that means a lot and reflects the hard work behind the scenes,” he added.
Despite the growing excitement around the club’s impressive campaign, Ozebagbe insisted that his players must remain fully concentrated ahead of their final two fixtures of the season against Katsina United and defending champions Rangers International.
According to the coach, the decisive games should be treated like cup finals as Ikorodu City continue their push for silverware and continental qualification.
“Two more finals before the curtain closes on the season. The mission remains the same — keep the belief alive,” he stated.
Ikorodu City remain firmly in contention for both the NPFL title and a CAF continental ticket as the season approaches its conclusion.
Their final home fixture against Rangers at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena is expected to play a major role in determining the club’s fate at the end of the campaign.
After narrowly missing out on continental football in their maiden top-flight season, Ikorodu City now have another opportunity to secure a historic qualification if results go in their favour over the closing weeks of the season.
With five years of experience, Olamide, who reports sports for PUNCH, covers Nigerian footballers, club and national teams, athletics and all ball games, producing features and interviews for readers
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