By Emex Henshaw
A new rivalry is brewing, and it’s becoming ferocious, this time in the southwestern region of Nigeria, pitting two footballing states against each other: Lagos, the center of excellence, and Ogun, the gateway state.
This rivalry is born from the beautiful game of football, not from the traditional powerhouses.
In the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, Nigeria was thrilled as stadiums overflowed with fans eager to watch clashes like Stationary Stores versus Abiola Babes. But now, a new-age rivalry is emerging, with Gen Z squaring off against Millennials and Noisy Lagosians battling the sky blue. Paul Offor is trading tactics with Daniel Ogunmodede.
The highlight of Round four of the Nigeria Premier Football League is set to take place in Ikenne at the Remo Stars Stadium, where Sporting Lagos will face Remo Stars.
Sporting Lagos is yet to concede a goal in the league this season, following their promotion last season. They have won one match and played two draws, with the most recent draw at home against Doma United. Currently, Sporting Lagos sits in the 5th position in the league.
Remo Stars recorded their first away win of the season, thanks to a goal from Sikiru Olatunbosun, against Bayelsa United. After an early exit in the first round against Medeama FC from Ghana, Remo Stars are eager to secure a continental spot again.
The match is expected to be enthralling, with added excitement from the events of the Super 8. In the Super 8 final, the two privately-owned teams faced off in a thrilling game, culminating in Sporting Lagos becoming the first winners. The newly formed club celebrated their victory.
Remo Stars aim to close the gap and win the title for the first time, while Sporting Lagos is determined to remain in the top flight for another season.
As the action unfolds on the pitch in Ikenne, there will also be another action on social media, with Gen Z taking on Millennials. When two elephants fight, the grass suffers, and this battle in Ikenne promises to be just as impactful.
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