 of Ibadan and Ikorodu City FC played out a thrilling 2-2 draw on Sunday in the opening match of the 2025 Eko){kind=link}
Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan and Ikorodu City FC played out a thrilling 2-2 draw on Sunday in the opening match of the 2025 Eko International Cup, held at the iconic Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.
The Group A clash lived up to expectations, offering a fast-paced, end-to-end contest that kept fans engaged from the first whistle.
Early Lead, Swift Response
The Oluyole Warriors drew first blood just five minutes in, as midfielder Gideon Monday pounced on a goalkeeping blunder from Ikorodu City’s Oyeyoga Akeem to slot home the opener and give 3SC an early advantage.
But Ikorodu City quickly found their rhythm and were back on level terms in the 16th minute. Forward Oyedokun Tosin confidently dispatched a penalty after a foul inside the box, restoring parity in a fiercely contested first half.
Momentum Swings in Second Half
The Lagos-based side came out strong after the break and took the lead in the 50th minute through Joseph Arumala, who unleashed a thunderous strike from distance that left 3SC goalkeeper helpless and drew cheers from the home crowd.
However, Shooting Stars showed resilience and character in the closing stages. With time running out, team captain Abayomi Adebayo rose highest to head home the equalizer from a well-delivered corner, salvaging a crucial point for his side in the group standings.
Chairman Salami Inspires with Pre-Match Visit
In a show of support, 3SC Executive Chairman Honourable Taiwo Lekan Salami was present at the stadium to watch the team’s first outing in the tournament. Before the game, he visited the players in the dressing room, delivering a stirring address that emphasized unity, pride, and the ambition to bring glory back to the club.
“Go out there and play with the spirit of Ibadan behind you. This is a tournament that gives you the platform to show the world who we are,” Salami told the players.
His presence added an extra layer of motivation as the team took to the pitch with intensity and drive.
What’s Next for Shooting Stars?
Shooting Stars will now shift focus to their second group match against NPFL side Rivers United on Wednesday. A win will be vital to their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages of the tournament.
Rivers United, who have also been tipped as one of the favourites, will offer a stern test for 3SC as both teams aim to secure early control of Group A.
Match Summary
Venue: Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos
Final Score: 3SC 2–2 Ikorodu City
Scorers:
3SC: Gideon Monday (5’), Abayomi Adebayo (82’) Ikorodu City: Oyedokun Tosin (16’ pen), Joseph Arumala (50’)