Kwara United head coach Tunde Sanni has praised the performance of Ikorodu City goalkeeper Michael Atata, following Sunday’s goalless draw between both sides in their 2025/26 NPFL opener on Sunday.
The Afonja Warriors had headed into their opening clash against the Lagos-based boys with high hopes for a fast start to the season after finishing in 14th position in the previous campaign
However, they were denied by the visiting goalkeeper, who produced an exceptional performance on multiple occasions as both side shared the spoils.
Speaking after the match, Tunde Sanni revealed his side deserved to win but were denied by the heroics of the Ikorodu City shot-stopper.
“It was not a bad game. Ikorodu were lucky not to have conceded at least three goals because their goalkeeper saved them today”, Sanni said after the match.
“We deserved to win but their goalkeeper denied us today. We will bounce back.”
The result leaves both sides with a point apiece after the first match week of the 2025/26 Nigerian Premier Football League season.
Kwara United travel to face 2022 champions Rivers United in their next match, while Ikorodu City play host to El-Kanemi Warriors at the Onikan Stadium next Sunday.
In other matches played, defending champions Remo Stars played a 1-1 draw against Rivers United on Friday, while Abia Warriors and Wikki Tourists claimed 1-0 wins over Kano Pillars and Plateau United respectively.
El-Kanemi Warriors defeated Bendel Insurance 2-0, while the shock of the round came in the match between Katsina United and Warri Wolves, as the latter claimed a 1-0 away win in their first match since gaining promotion to the top-flight.
Bayelsa United also won 1-0 away from home against Shooting Stars, while the matches between Enugu Rangers against Kun Khalifat and that of Barau against Enyimba ended goalless.
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