Kwara United Coach, Tunde Sanni, said Ikorodu City goalkeeper, Micheal Atata, denied his team a deserved victory in their opening match of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL),

The match ended in a goalless draw in Ilorin.

Mr Sanni made the remark on Sunday after the stalemate between Kwara United and Ikorodu City at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl, George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.

He described the encounter as “not a bad game,” insisting that his side created enough chances to win.

He stated, “It was not a bad game. Ikorodu were lucky not to have conceded at least three goals because their goalkeeper saved them today. We deserved to win but their goalkeeper denied us today. We will bounce back.’’

The Assistant Captain, Kabiru Mohammed, also expressed disappointment with the result, noting that a single point was not part of the team’s plan.

He stated, “Sharing the points was not our intention. We will improve and make sure we convert our chances from the next game.’’

The game was marred by injuries, as Akanni Akeem and Saheed Olaniyi were both stretchered off after sustaining knocks.

Kwara United midfielder, Shola Abdulraheem, tested Ikorodu’s goalkeeper on three occasions, but Atata stood firm with brilliant saves to keep his side in the game.

Kwara United will next travel to Port Harcourt for a Matchday 2 clash against Rivers United at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium on Saturday

(NAN)