Inter Lagos do not need a messiah. They need goals, better decisions in the final third and consistent results.
The appointment of Olusanjo Olutayo as interim head coach gives the Lagos club a fresh chapter following Shakiru Giwa’s departure on October 13. Giwa was in charge when Inter Lagos secured a notable 1–0 away victory over Enyimba, but the team’s struggles in other matches highlighted areas that needed improvement.
One of the biggest concerns has been the attack. Inter Lagos have struggled to create enough clear chances and convert the opportunities they produce. Haddi, the pacy winger, offers a threat with his speed, but his decision-making in dangerous areas has sometimes let him down. Pace can get a player past an opponent, but choosing the right pass, run or finish is what turns that advantage into goals.
Akipelu Quyum has been one of the brighter performers despite the team’s difficult results. The midfielder offers solidity and creativity, giving Olutayo a valuable option as he looks to improve the team’s attacking play.
That is where the new coach’s real test begins. Olutayo has spoken about building a team that fights, emphasising unity, hard work and accountability. Those qualities matter, but effort alone will not solve problems with chance creation and finishing. Inter Lagos need to become more purposeful in possession and more decisive when opportunities arrive.
His immediate challenge is Nasarawa United, whom Inter Lagos are scheduled to host on Sunday, October 18, at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena. It is an early opportunity to show whether the change in the dugout can translate into progress on the pitch.
So, is Olutayo the messiah? It is too early to make that call. Inter Lagos have already shown they can produce results, but they must find greater consistency if they are to navigate their first NPFL season successfully.
Olutayo does not need to perform miracles. He needs to improve the team’s attacking structure, sharpen its decision-making in the final third and get the best out of players such as Quyum.
The question is not whether Olutayo can promise to save Inter Lagos. It is whether he can turn the team’s potential into points before the season slips further away.
