April 24, 2025 – Stephen Keshi Stadium, Delta State
Ughelli Rovers Football Club launched their 2025 Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO) campaign in style, securing a hard-earned 1-0 win against Itamah Football Academy in a thrilling Matchday One clash at the Stephen Keshi Stadium. The Eguono V’Ovwian Boys showcased resilience and flair, with substitute Osuya Blessing emerging as the hero in a match defined by a late moment of magic.
Under partly sunny skies with occasional showers, both teams battled fiercely in their first-ever competitive meeting. The first half saw a tactical chess match, with disciplined defenses and alert goalkeepers ensuring a goalless stalemate at the break. Despite shared possession, clear scoring chances were scarce as both sides struggled to find their rhythm.
The second half brought renewed intensity, with Rovers’ Head Coach making a game-changing move in the 65th minute by introducing Osuya Blessing. The substitute injected pace and purpose into the attack, and his impact was felt in the 81st minute. A pinpoint through-pass from midfielder Oderuviesan Vincent carved open Itamah’s defense, setting Osuya free. With composure beyond his years, the Ughelli-born forward outpaced his markers and rifled a right-footed strike into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the Rovers faithful.
Itamah FA pushed for a late equalizer, but Rovers’ captain and goalkeeper Efe Bartholomew stood tall, making a crucial save in the dying moments to preserve a clean sheet and seal the victory. The result marks Rovers’ fourth win in their last five outings, setting a confident tone for the season ahead.
Reflecting on his NLO debut, an ecstatic Osuya Blessing shared, “Scoring the winner in my first NLO game for Rovers is a moment I’ll never forget. Vincent’s pass was perfect, and I just trusted my instincts. The team’s belief in me gave me the confidence to deliver. This is just the beginning!”
The victory provides the perfect momentum as Ughelli Rovers prepare to face arch-rivals Isoko United at the same venue in six days. With their sights set on a strong NLO campaign, the Eguono V’Ovwian Boys are ready to build on this opening triumph.
Up Rovers!
_Follow Ughelli Rovers FC on social media for updates and join us at Stephen Keshi Stadium to cheer on the team in our next match against Isoko United_
