Niger Tornadoes defender Reuben Ogbonnaya says both the Ikon Allah Boys and Lobi Stars are eagerly counting down to what will be a close North Central derby.
The two clubs, who are on first and sixth place respectively meet on Wednesday 18th July at the Bako Kontagora Stadium and Ogbonnaya has reflected on the emotions approaching the fixture.
Reuben Ogbonnaya
“The derbies are very special. Clearly there are just three points available, but this not just one more game because both teams love to win this match,” he told Footballlive.ng today.
“It’s a different week, with both teams looking forward to Wednesday afternoon for when the game can begin. The entire atmosphere in the two cities of Minna and Makurdi before a derby is great.”
The central defender reflected on the approach his team must take in order to pick up a result.
“It is a game that can be won by small details, intensity may not get the most out of the team. We have to be strong in defence and have a lot of concentration for their short passing.
Reuben Ogbonnaya
“With the ball they will be a danger, but it will be important for us to keep a clean sheet and we believe we will also have a few chances of our own.
“In the League we are close and on similar points tallies and I think it will be a closely fought derby. We start it at home, but we are finding form, wanting to do things and wanting to win the game.”
