Sporting Lagos made an impressive debut in the 2023/2024 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) with a commanding two-nil victory over Gombe United at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos. The club, newly promoted from Nigeria’s second-tier league, the NNL, showcased their determination in their first-ever NPFL appearance.

The Lagos-based team secured their historic win on Monday, October 2, 2023, with well-timed goals from Rivio Ayemwenre and Clement Naatum, setting the stage for a promising NPFL campaign.

First NPFL game ✅
First NPFL win✅

FT| Sporting Lagos 🔵 |2-0| Gombe United 🦂

Proud of these boys 💙. Let’s go Sporting🔥#NPFL24 #LetsGoSporting pic.twitter.com/jPeSWwzrBy

— Sporting Lagos (@SportingLagos) October 2, 2023

The encounter began with both sides showing glimpses of their attacking intent, with Sporting Lagos pressing early. In the 22nd minute, Rivio Ayemwenre nearly provided the opening goal when he skillfully maneuvered past a defender and attempted to square the ball into the net. Unfortunately for Gombe United, their defender deflected the ball wide, leading to a corner.

Sporting Lagos continued to apply pressure, creating opportunities for themselves. In the 29th minute, a beautiful pass from Henry to Orji resulted in a tantalizing cross. However, Gombe United’s defense once again conceded a corner.

Gombe United had their moments, too, as seen in the 35th minute when Okon came close. A clever one-two play between Chinedu Ufete and Saturday Okon allowed Okon to make a goal-bound run. Despite the promising position, his shot narrowly missed the target.

The breakthrough for Sporting Lagos came just before halftime when Rivio expertly rose to meet Jonathan’s cross and headed the ball into the back of the net, marking the club’s first-ever goal in the NPFL.

The Atmosphere Here At The Mobolaji Johnson Arena 💥💯! #NPFL24 pic.twitter.com/SF03i4Tz5z

— Bounce Sports (@bouncesports1) October 2, 2023

The second half saw Rivio continuing to be a constant threat. In the 54th minute, he had another opportunity after Okon was brought down while chasing a through ball. The loose ball found Rivio, but his shot failed to find the target.

Sporting Lagos appeared to be in control, with Rivio orchestrating their attacks. In the 71st minute, Clement, who had recently come off the bench, extended their lead, putting Sporting ahead by two goals.

The Noisy Lagosians saw off Savannah Scorpion in their first ever outing in the NPFLto record a 7/8 home wins in matchday 1.

The final two games of the round was postponed due to Bendel Insurance and Rivers United’s engagement in CAF Confederations Cup.#NPFLWithMIAS #NPFL24 pic.twitter.com/lfcOWCOzYL

— Made In Africa Sport (@madeinafricaweb) October 2, 2023

In the dying moments of the match, Gombe United was awarded a penalty opportunity in the 94th minute. However, Mojeeb Odufeso’s effort was off target, ensuring Sporting Lagos secured their first NPFL victory with a final score of two-nil.

The Noisy Lagosians’ next challenge will be an away fixture at the Nest of Champions, as they aim to continue their promising start in the NPFL.