The round four matches of the Peculiar People Soccer League brought together skill, intensity, and a strong reminder of what the game is truly about, passion, values, and community. The opening clash between Peace FC and Faith FC ended in a 1–1 draw, but it was anything but ordinary.

Faith drew first blood just eight minutes into the match. Kariboye found the net with a composed finish, set up beautifully by Gomez, who delivered a precise assist that split the defense wide open. It was a dream start for Faith FC, but their celebration was short-lived. Sixteen minutes later, Peace responded with poise. Chijioke found space just outside the box and slotted home the equalizer after an intelligent setup from Michael. The rest of the match played out as a hard-fought midfield contest, with both sides pressing for the winner but unable to convert their chances.

The second match of the day saw Joy FC and Love FC cancel each other out in a goalless draw. Though full of intensity, the match lacked the clinical edge to break the deadlock. One notable moment came when Tosin Bayode of Love FC was booked for an intentional handball. The match ended with both sides splitting points, a result that neither team will be thrilled about.

The final game of the day featured Light FC against Grace FC. The lone goal came in the 21st minute from Musa, who capitalized on a well-timed assist from Delight to give Light FC a narrow 1–0 win. The game, however, was marred by a series of yellow cards. Grace’s Anthony Agyemang and Segun Adetifa were both cautioned for not wearing shinguards, while Light’s Oscar received a yellow for a sliding tackle and Joseph was booked for impeding an opposition attack. While the match delivered in drama, the number of cautions signaled a need for tighter discipline across the board.

With four matches played for each team, Love FC currently sits atop the standings with 8 points, unbeaten with two wins and two draws. Grace FC follows closely behind with 7 points, while Peace FC (5 points) and Faith FC (4 points) remain mid-table. Joy FC (4 points) and Light FC (4 points) are tied at the bottom. But with many games left to play, the league is still wide open.

The top scorers’ chart is heating up as well. Daniel Onyeakazi of Joy FC, Osas from Love FC, and Kariboye Derek from Faith FC each lead with four goals apiece. Hot on their heels are Light FC’s Musa and Delight, along with Peace FC’s Hassan Olanrewaju, all with two goals each.

Off the pitch, the league’s disciplinary panel handed down key decisions regarding red card appeals from round 3 games. In the case of Sesan Sopitan from Team Light, the panel reviewed his appeal and agreed that while his actions were retaliatory, they weren’t malicious. His red card was downgraded to a yellow, and he is now eligible to play again. 

On the other hand, Daniel Olajubutu of Team Joy was not as fortunate. The panel upheld the red card he received for a dangerous tackle, dissent, and use of offensive language. In addition to his ejection, he has been handed a two-match suspension. The panel cited his prior yellow card and verbal warning as factors in their decision, reaffirming the league’s commitment to upholding sportsmanship and safe play.

These incidents have sparked a wider conversation about safety on the field. One player, after being involved in a reckless challenge, shared his concern: “At the time, I didn’t think much of it. But later that evening, I realized I could barely walk properly. My ankle is really hurt.” He added that while he’s not looking to complain, he hopes players and referees become more vigilant, especially in areas where visibility is limited. “These kinds of tackles can lead to serious injuries, and it’s worth finding ways to help refs get better support and positioning. It’ll help keep the game fair and safe for everyone.”

As the league continues, this serves as a call to all players. Let’s protect one another. The game we love thrives not just on goals and victories, but on respect, care, and the values that brought us all together in the first place.

The next matchday promises more action, twists, and rivalries. Will Love FC stay undefeated? Can Peace or Faith rise through the ranks? And will the goal race heat up even more? Only time will tell! But one thing is certain: PPSL 2025 is in full swing, and every game matters.