Sporting Lagos defeated Ranchers Bees 1-0 in the opening fixture of the Nigeria National League, NNL, Super Four playoff in Ikenne on Monday.
Jeffrey Buter’s side wasted no time asserting themselves, showing clear attacking intent from the blast of the whistle.
Their early pressure nearly paid off in the 17th minute when Seun Akanji carved out the first real chance of the game, but his effort was smartly denied by the Ranchers Bees goalkeeper.
Sporting Lagos continued to probe for an opener, with Aliyu Baba also displaying moments of attacking promise.
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However, despite their dominance in possession and territory, they struggled to find the cutting edge needed to break down a resolute Ranchers Bees defence.
The breakthrough eventually arrived five minutes before halftime.
A well-worked move down the flank saw Shola Oladunjoye combine with Seun Akanji who delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, where Alex Leme rose highest to power home a clinical header in the 40th minute, sending the Sporting Lagos bench into celebration.
That goal proved to be the difference in a game defined by discipline and defensive organisation from both sides.
Ranchers Bees pushed for an equaliser in the second half but were unable to breach Sporting Lagos’ backline, as their opponent held firm to secure all three points.
