South-West Showdown: Ikorodu City and Shooting Stars Set for High-Stakes Derby Clash

The South-Western derby between Ikorodu City and Shooting Stars FC (3SC) on November 17, 2024, is shaping up to clash with ambition and legacy. The Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos is expected to be packed with fans from both sides, eager to witness this thrilling encounter. While Shooting Stars bring a storied history and pedigree, Ikorodu City are the new challengers, eager to carve out their place in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL).

As the week leading to the game unfolds, Lagos is alive with excitement. Ikorodu City, the league’s ambitious newcomers, have captured the hearts of many with their fearless play. Their recent 2-1 triumph over Katsina United was a testament to their growing confidence and adaptability in Nigeria’s top league. 

Meanwhile, Shooting Stars are riding high after a dominant 3-0 victory over El Kanemi Warriors. Known as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated clubs, their fans are determined to remind everyone that they remain the powerhouse of the South-West. The derby, therefore, is more than a match—it’s a chance to assert dominance in a region teeming with football passion.

 Tactics and Strategies  

Ikorodu City’s coach, whose tactical philosophy emphasizes high-pressing and rapid counterattacks, will be key to their performance. Waliu Ojetoye orchestrates their play as a wing-back, threading passes to release their pacey attackers. Ikorodu’s wingers have been deadly on the flanks, exploiting defensive lapses with precision. However, their defense has shown moments of vulnerability under sustained pressure—a weakness Shooting Stars will undoubtedly look to exploit.

On the other side, Shooting Stars are a well-drilled outfit under the experienced Gbenga Ogunbote. Their defensive solidity and ability to capitalize on set pieces have been hallmarks of their success this season. Led by the talismanic Samuel Ayorinde, they have an attack capable of punishing even the slightest mistakes. Ogunbote’s focus will likely be on controlling the tempo and nullifying Ikorodu’s youthful exuberance.

Matchday Fever

The streets of Lagos island will surely experience a buzz on Sunday as traveling Shooting Stars’ fans  from Ibadan will make their presence felt, draped in the club’s blue and white, chanting and singing their team’s anthems. Ikorodu City’s supporters, ever passionate, will respond with their sea of red and gold. Their chants echo across the city, setting the stage for a derby that transcends football.

The Mobolaji Johnson Arena is expected to be packed to capacity, with supporters from both sides fueling the energy of the game. For Ikorodu City, this is more than a match; it’s an opportunity to etch their name into the annals of South-West football. For Shooting Stars, it’s about protecting their legacy as regional kings.

 Stakes Beyond the Scoreline

This game is not just about points for Ikorodu City, it’s a chance to prove they belong at this level and stake a claim as South-West contenders. Shooting Stars, on the other hand, see this as an opportunity to affirm their dominance and reassert their credentials in the league.

As the match approaches, one thing is certain: this derby will leave an indelible mark on the 2024/25 NPFL season. Will Ikorodu City rise to the occasion and shock the giants, or will Shooting Stars’ experience and pedigree shine through? Whatever the outcome, the South-West derby promises to deliver a spectacle worthy of its billing, ensuring it will be remembered long after the final whistle blows.