Coaches from three prominent Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) clubs have shared their insights following a weekend of intense matches. Bright Ozebagbe of Ikorodu City, Meremu Okara of Bayelsa United, and Mbwas Mangut of Nasarawa United each offered their perspectives on team performances and future strategies.

Ikorodu City: A Win Tempered by Conceded Goal

Ikorodu City secured a challenging 2-1 victory against Plateau United. Joseph Arumala and Alade Balogun scored for Ikorodu City. Wisdom Ndom netted Plateau United’s lone goal. Despite the win, Technical Adviser Bright Ozebagbe expressed disappointment. He was unhappy about his team conceding a goal.

Ozebagbe attributed this to a lapse in concentration. “I’m disappointed we failed to keep a clean sheet,” Ozebagbe told the club’s media. “We practiced defending throws near the box. But the players lost focus, and the goal came in. I am not happy about it.” This win, however, propelled Ikorodu City to the top of the league standings.

Bayelsa United: Determination Pays Off

Elsewhere, Bayelsa United’s Technical Adviser, Meremu Okara, commended his players. Their determination led to a 2-1 victory over Abia Warriors. The match took place at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa. Chinedu Emmanuel scored both goals for Bayelsa United. Sunday Megwo found the net for Abia Warriors.

Okara praised the team’s commitment after the close contest. “This victory came from hard work and determination,” he stated. “We were in the league’s danger zone. Now, this win will move us into the top half. Our recent form shows we are heading in the right direction.” Bayelsa United now sits in 10th place with 18 points.

Nasarawa United: Regrouping After a Draw

Nasarawa United, however, must regroup following a 1-1 draw. They played Kun Khalifat FC in Owerri. This result saw them fall to second place on the league table. The Solid Miners are now preparing for a vital home game. They will face El-Kanemi Warriors at the Lafia City Stadium this weekend.

Technical Adviser Mbwas Mangut stressed the need for significant improvement. “We must work hard and smartly,” Mangut told the club’s media. “We need to face El-Kanemi Warriors, another strong team, in our next home game. Our goal is to secure maximum points.” Mangut also recalled their previous meeting. Nasarawa United suffered a 4-3 defeat against El-Kanemi Warriors then.