Sporting Lagos FC kicked off their journey in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) with a remarkable start, securing a convincing 2-0 victory over Gombe United on Monday.
The highly anticipated match, held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena (formerly known as Onikan Stadium), drew in a crowd of enthusiastic fans eager to once again witness top-tier football in Lagos.
Lagos fans have endured a few years without the opportunity to experience top-flight football after the demotion of Lagos-based MFM FC and the departure of other notable clubs like Stationary Stores, Julius Berger, and Ikorodu United from the scene. However, the arrival of Sporting Lagos FC in the Premier League has rekindled the excitement among football enthusiasts in the state.
In their inaugural NPFL game, Sporting Lagos FC showcased their potential and talent as they triumphed over Gombe United, also known as the Jewels of Savannah, with a 2-0 victory. The first goal came from the skilled foot of Rivio Ayemwenre, who headed the ball into the back of the net after being left unmarked to receive a well-placed cross from Jonathan Alukwu in the 42nd minute.
The second goal was scored by Clement Nantuam, who capitalized on Junior Lokosa’s missed overhead kick, seizing the opportunity during a goal-mouth scramble.
The match had its fair share of tense moments, including a defensive error by Sporting Lagos FC’s captain that resulted in a penalty for Gombe United. However, Gombe United’s Mojeeb Odufeso failed to convert the penalty into a consolation goal, missing the opportunity in added time during the second half.
This resounding victory marked a significant milestone for Sporting Lagos FC as they celebrated their first-ever win in the NPFL.
Speaking after the match, the Coach of Sporting Lagos FC, Paul Offor, gave thumbs up for the performance of his side.He said the first win would serve as a morale booster.
“This is a type of result needed to open our account in the elite league. The team played well and we will continue to get better as time goes by. Our target is to win the league,” he said.
The Coach of Gombe United FC, Mohammed Babaganaru, said he was satisfied with the performance of his team despite the loss
“I am satisfied with the performance of my team although there are some other works to be done.
“The team was quickly assembled because we were not sure when the league would start, we were just training on our own after the league was postponed.
“We have no target for the season, we just want to take the game as they come,” he said.
