Lokosa, Ufere Return to Familiar Territory as Enyimba Eyes Crucial Points Against Ikorodu City

As the 2024/25 NPFL season enters a crucial stage, Enyimba FC will make a highly anticipated trip to Lagos this Sunday, March 16, for a showdown with Ikorodu City FC at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena. For former Sporting Lagos duo, Junior Lokosa and Ufere Chinedu, it will be a return to familiar hunting ground—one that promises nostalgia but also immense stakes in the battle for top spots on the league table.

With just 10 games left in the campaign, every point carries extra weight, and both teams know what is at stake. Enyimba, still in the hunt for a top-three finish, cannot afford any slip-ups, while Ikorodu City, the NPFL’s new sensation, will be eager to prove their mettle against the 9 time league champions.

The reverse fixture in Aba was a dramatic affair, with Enyimba snatching a last-gasp 2-1 victory after Moses Adukwu struck in stoppage time. This time, however, the People's Elephant must navigate an even trickier challenge against a side that seem to have turned their home ground into a fortress.

For Lokosa, the trip to Lagos is one of mixed emotions. The former NPFL Golden Boot winner knows the terrain well, having previously dazzled fans in the city. But sentimentality will take a backseat as Enyimba seeks to strengthen their push for a continental ticket.

"Yeah, our next game is against Ikorodu City and it's a stadium I know very well. Right now, they are in a good shape playing in front of their home fans, and the Lagosians are very supportive," Lokosa told reporters ahead of the clash.

"We are going there to give our all because we know our target and what we are looking up to. It won't be an easy game, but I believe with our last two performances, we are coming out with a good spirit and in good form. Our fans should give us the support, and I believe we will come out victorious."

With the league gradually hitting it's crescendo and CAF competition slots up for grabs, Enyimba cannot afford to drop points. Currently positioned within striking distance of the top three, they know that consistency is key.

"The chances of making the top three are still open," Lokosa added. "We just need to take our chances both home and away, which I believe we are adjusting to. Hopefully, we would be good."

While Enyimba has shown flashes of brilliance, their struggle with missed chances remains a concern. Lokosa, however, believes improvement is a matter of time.

"As a striker, when you miss a great chance, you can be worried, but it's a gradual process. We are working on it, and I believe we will get better."

The former Remo Stars hitman may not have found the back of the net for Enyimba since joining, but he remains upbeat, drawing inspiration from veteran forward Brown Ideye.

"Playing alongside a legend like Brown Ideye is an honour. I'm happy to share the pitch with him; he is an amazing and loving person. He always helps us correct little mistakes we make."

"Yeah, I'm yet to score, but I know the goals will come. I haven't had many games, but that's not an excuse. I can see it coming, and once it starts, it will continue."

For Ikorodu City, Sunday’s clash is about more than just three points—it’s about proving they belong among the NPFL elite. Their resilience in the first leg showed they are no pushovers, and with their home crowd behind them, they will be confident of taking something from the game.

For Enyimba, this is another opportunity to flex their championship pedigree. With pressure mounting and the finish line in sight, the People's Elephant must roar louder than ever. Will Lokosa finally break his Enyimba duck? Will Ikorodu City pull off an upset? Lagos is set for a thriller.