Living Voice Football Academy’s 2025 Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO) campaign came to a heartbreaking end on Saturday with a 3-1 defeat to Ekiti United in their final playoff round-robin match at the Ijebu Ode Township Stadium.
The loss means Living Voice will not progress to the next round, but the club’s remarkable season, marked by a first-place group stage finish and an all-around impressive performance, has left an indelible mark on the NLO.
The match against Ekiti United was a must-win for Living Voice, with all four playoff teams—Living Voice, Bendel Insurance Jnr, Adamimogo FC, and Ekiti United—tied on two points heading into the final fixture. Ekiti United struck early, capitalizing on their attacking momentum to take a 2-0 lead. Living Voice, guided by the tactical synergy of Coaches Williams and Austine Agberu Chinaza, fought back with a goal to halve the deficit, reigniting hopes among the Ijebu Ode faithful. However, a third goal from Ekiti United sealed Living Voice’s fate, ending their playoff aspirations despite a valiant effort.
Though the defeat stings, Living Voice’s season has been nothing short of exceptional. The Academy topped their group stage with an unbeaten record, securing victories over Detra FC (1-0), Junosa FC (6-1), Big 100 FC (1-0), and a walkover against Rolly FC, alongside a 0-0 draw with Benin Insurance Feeders. Their playoff campaign began with a 2-2 draw against Adamimogo FC and a 1-1 stalemate with Bendel Insurance Jnr, showcasing their ability to compete with the NLO’s elite. Scoring eight goals and conceding just one in the group stage, Living Voice demonstrated a potent blend of attacking flair and defensive solidity.
The club’s president, and administrators expressed profound gratitude to the technical crew and players for their dedication and outstanding performances. They reserved special praise for consultant Prince Isaiah Igben, whose strategic insight and unwavering presence were instrumental in guiding the team to their group stage triumph and competitive playoff run. “Our management has full confidence in this squad, and we are immensely proud of their efforts,” the president said. “Prince Isaiah Igben’s leadership has been invaluable, and while we’re disappointed not to advance, this season has laid a strong foundation for future success.”
Coaches Williams and Austine Agberu Chinaza, whose unified approach drove Living Voice’s success, were lauded for their tactical brilliance. Their ability to balance disciplined defending with dynamic attacking play earned the team respect across the NLO, and their legacy will fuel the club’s ambitions moving forward.