Match-day three of the 2022/23 Nigeria Professional Football League will conclude on Wednesday with a southwest derby between Remo Stars and 3SC in Ikenne. This match marks the first league encounter between the two coaches, Daniel Ogunbodede of Remo Stars and Gbenga Ogunbote of 3SC, as reported by The Sports Extra. The teams enter the game with contrasting results, and the relationship between their coaches adds an intriguing layer to the rivalry.
Ogunbote, who was previously in charge of Remo Stars last season, has a history with this fixture. He led Remo to a victory in Ikenne and secured a point in the reverse fixture in Ibadan. However, both matches were marred by tensions between the fans of the two clubs. This season, Ogunbote has taken the helm at 3SC after guiding Remo to a continental spot last term. He is eager for a positive result to demonstrate a turnaround, having collected only two points from the opening two games of the season. “There are no emotions attached in this job. Last season I had a job with Remo and I did it, so this time around I have a job with 3SC, and my responsibility is to get results for my team,” Ogunbote stated.
On the other hand, Remo coach Ogunbodede, who had stepped aside for further studies after securing promotion for Remo last season, has made a successful return to the dugout with two wins already. He expressed his respect for Ogunbote, referring to him as a senior colleague and a father figure. However, Ogunbodede emphasized that he would not let emotions interfere with his objectives. “I only want to do my job and get what I want. So, I am not trying to use my heart to play; I am trying to use my head,” he explained. He added, “The only thing going through my mind is getting the three points from the match. Nothing good comes easy, and there is no cheap opponent. We are going to fight to get all three points against Shooting Stars.”
As it stands, after two matches this season, Remo Stars are positioned second in Group A of the abridged league with six points, while 3SC sits seventh with two points from the same number of games.
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