Finidi George’s men frustrated at home as resilient Ikorodu City secure valuable NPFL point
Rivers United were held to a 0–0 draw by a determined Ikorodu City side on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium. Despite dominating possession and creating more chances, the “Pride of Rivers” could not find a breakthrough against the visitors’ organised defence. The result came just days after Rivers United’s emphatic 3–1 CAF Champions League win over Black Bulls of Mozambique that secured their group-stage qualification.
From Kickoff to Final Whistle
Technical Manager Finidi George made tactical adjustments to sustain the team’s winning momentum, but Ikorodu City’s discipline and compact defending made life difficult for the hosts.
Early on, Michael Atata was the first goalkeeper called into action, gathering a header from Wasiu Falolu. At the other end, Osagie Onisodumeya produced a full-stretch save to deny Chidera Oparaocha, setting the tone for an evenly matched encounter.
As the first half wore on, Rivers United began to find rhythm through Timothy Zachariah, who danced past two defenders only for his shot to be blocked inside the box. Taiwo AbdulRafiu nearly unlocked the visitors’ backline after a flowing attack, but Atata intercepted his cross and cleared the rebound.
Seyi Oguntayo and Wasiu Falolu traded long-range efforts that went off target before halftime, keeping the scores level. The second half followed the same pattern. Boluwaji Sholumade’s header flew inches over the bar as Rivers United pushed forward. However, Ikorodu City continued to defend in numbers, frustrating every attempt.
With five minutes left, Samson Obi came closest to scoring, but Atata again produced a fine save to keep the game goalless. A late penalty appeal for a foul on Okon Aniekeme was waved away by the referee, sealing the stalemate.
Stats
Final score: Rivers United 0 – 0 Ikorodu City
Competition: Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL)
Venue: Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt
Goalkeepers: Osagie Onisodumeya (Rivers United), Michael Atata (Ikorodu City)
Notable performers: Timothy Zachariah, Samson Obi (Rivers United); Wasiu Falolu, Atata (Ikorodu City)
The Decisive Moment
Both sides created half-chances, but neither could convert. The highlight of the day was Michael Atata’s commanding goalkeeping; denying Rivers United’s forwards on multiple occasions. His reflex save late in the game kept Ikorodu City’s clean sheet intact and earned the visitors a precious away point.
What This Means for Both Teams
For Rivers United, the result is a minor setback in their NPFL campaign, but it underlines the need for more clinical finishing in the final third. Still, the clean sheet keeps confidence high following their CAF Champions League qualification.
For Ikorodu City, this is a statement performance. Holding one of Nigeria’s most consistent clubs away from home reflects tactical maturity and organisation qualities that could prove vital as they look to establish themselves firmly in the topflight.
Reaction and What’s Next
After the match, Rivers United’s Media Officer Charles Mayuku confirmed the team’s focus now shifts to their upcoming NPFL fixture: “We host Nasarawa United at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium on Sunday, 2nd November 2025.”
That game provides an immediate chance for Finidi George’s men to rediscover their scoring touch and strengthen their league position.
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