Ikorodu City suffered their first home loss of the 2024/2025 NPFL season, falling 1-0 to defending champions Enugu Rangers at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Wednesday.

The defeat leaves Ikorodu City at the bottom of the league table after three games.

The match’s turning point came when the referee awarded a controversial corner kick to Enugu Rangers, despite the ball appearing to deflect off a Rangers player.

Chinemerem Ugwueze capitalized on this opportunity, heading in the corner at the near post into the far right of Ikorodu City’s goalkeeper in the 25th minute to secure the lead for the Flying Antelopes.

Ikorodu City responded with several scoring opportunities but were unable to capitalize before half-time.

They came out strong in the second half, generating numerous chances, yet their attack lacked the finishing touch to equalize.

Rangers, meanwhile, countered with their own efforts, but both teams were thwarted by missed chances and bad luck in front of goal.

The drama peaked when Rangers’ midfield gem, Kazeem Ogunleye, was sent off for unsportsmanlike behavior, receiving a red card that will see him miss the upcoming match against Remo Stars, which would delight their weekend opponents.