Tensions rise as 'Baby of the League' threaten leaders Remo with Super Eagles assistant missing

Newly promoted Ikorodu City celebrate at Onikan.

Tensions rise as 'Baby of the League' threaten leaders Remo with Super Eagles assistant missing

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 19:27 - 13.12.2024

The Baby of the league have scored more goals than any team in the Football League and are looking to add to that tally against leaders Remo Stars in the Southwest derby.

Newly promoted Ikorodu City fondly referred to as ‘Baby of the League’ are set to host Remo Stars in a highly anticipated Southwest derby this Sunday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos. 

Known as the Oga Boys, Ikorodu have been formidable at home, winning six of their last eight matches and scoring an impressive 17 goals during that stretch in the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL. 

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They are currently the top scorers in the NPFL with 22 goals overall and are fancying themselves against their more illustrious neighbours from Ikenne.

Ikorodu vs Remo: Current Form and Stakes

Ikorodu are keen to bounce back after suffering a defeat to Bayelsa United, which ended their six-game unbeaten streak. 

Ikorodu City are looking like title contenders at the moment. (Photo Credit: Ikorodu City/X)

The team is determined to maintain their strong home record and avoid being drawn into the relegation zone, making this match critical for their season.

On the other hand, Remo Stars, despite being the best team at home this season, have struggled on the road with only two wins in eight away matches. 

Remo Stars are the new league leaders but will be without Daniel Ogunmodede, their coach.

The Sky Blues will be without their head coach Daniel Ogunmodede, who is currently with the Super Eagles B team preparing for the CHAN qualifiers against Ghana. His absence could impact their strategy and performance

Tactical Overview

  • Ikorodu City:

  1. Home Advantage: Their recent form at home makes them a formidable opponent and favourite for this tie.

Match winner, Rivio (left) celebrates with his Ikorodu City mates.
  1. Top Scorers: With 22 goals this season, they will look to capitalise on any defensive lapses from Remo.

  • Remo Stars:

  1. Coaching Changes: The absence of Ogunmodede may lead to tactical adjustments.

Daniel Ogunmodede will miss the derby.
  1. Road Performance: They need to improve their away form to challenge Ikorodu effectively.

This derby, the first-ever between the two, promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams vie for crucial points. 

Super Eagles defender Ismail Sodiq is one to look out for. (Photo Credit: Remo/X)

Ikorodu City aim to leverage their home advantage and high-scoring capabilities, while Remo Stars seek to overcome their road challenges despite missing key leadership. 

As both teams prepare for what has been termed the battle for supremacy, fans and NPFL lovers can expect a thrilling match filled with intensity and passion.