By Femi Atolagbe

Rivio Ayemwere’s 98th-minute penalty secured a dramatic victory for Ikorodu City against Sunshine Stars in a South West derby at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos State.

Despite Sunshine Stars’ protest over the stoppage-time penalty decision, referee Salam Olabode Idris stood firm and awarded the spot kick in favour of Ikorodu City. Ayemwere confidently converted the penalty to clinch the win for the home side.

Matchday 19 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) began with both teams showcasing impressive football artistry. The visitors, Sunshine Stars, appeared to have earned a penalty in the 16th minute when Promise Awosanmi was fouled inside the 18-yard box, but the referee waved play on.

Ikorodu City took the lead in the 37th minute through Adelami Ishola’s close-range strike. Sunshine Stars equalised eight minutes later when captain Chidozie Iwundu nodded in a well-placed header from Seth Mayi’s corner kick.

In the second half, the Abubakar Bala-tutored Sunshine Stars tightened their midfield and defensive lines, making it a closely contested encounter. However, the game was decided deep into stoppage time, with Ikorodu City scoring the decisive goal in the 98th minute of the allocated six additional minutes.

The result confirmed Sunshine Stars ended the first half of the season in 15th place. They are set to host Ikorodu City when the league resumes in January 2025.