The Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) saw another exciting weekend of action, with Ahmed Musa leading Kano Pillars to a 2-0 victory over Sunshine Stars at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium on Sunday.
Musa, in his third spell with Pillars, made an immediate impact by scoring just five minutes into the game. He doubled the lead in the 50th minute, showcasing his brilliance once again. Kano Pillars had a chance to extend their lead when they were awarded a penalty in the 70th minute, but Musa missed the opportunity for a hat-trick as his shot hit the post.
Musa, who previously played for Pillars in the 2009/10 season and briefly in 2021, continues to make his mark, helping the team climb up the standings.
In another thrilling encounter, Rivers United move to the top of the table with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Akwa United. Stephen Manyo opened the scoring for Rivers United in the 32nd minute, but Akwa United responded swiftly with an equalizer from Friday Apollos just one minute into the second half. The game seemed destined for a draw until Ndifreke Effiong sealed the victory for Rivers United five minutes before full time. Akwa United’s struggles continue as they are yet to record a win this season.
Meanwhile, in Ilorin, Remo Stars suffered their first defeat of the season, losing 1-0 to Kwara United. Abdulraheem Shola scored the decisive goal in the 62nd minute to hand Kwara United all three points
At the New Jos Stadium, Plateau United secured a narrow 1-0 win over Ikorodu City, courtesy of a 57th-minute strike from Vincent Temitope. The result leaves Ikorodu City still searching for their first win of the season, with four losses in five games.
In the much-anticipated oriental derby, Enugu Rangers edged Abia Warriors 1-0, thanks to a 59th-minute goal from Kazeem Ogunleye. The victory gave Rangers a crucial three points in the tightly contested affair.
Heartland FC also enjoyed success, earning their first win of the season with a 2-0 triumph over Niger Tornadoes. Michael Ogu was the hero for the Nazi Millionaires, scoring both goals to secure the victory.
Elsewhere, Lobi Stars relieved some pressure on their head coach, Eugene Agagbe, by claiming their first win of the season with a 1-0 victory over Shooting Stars. A 29th-minute strike from Samuel Tiza was enough to earn Lobi all three points at the Lafia Township Stadium, following an ultimatum from the club’s management.
Finally, El-Kanemi Warriors continued their unbeaten away run with a 1-1 draw against Bendel Insurance at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium. Ibrahim Mustapha gave El-Kanemi an early lead just two minutes in, but Michael Enaruna equalized for Bendel Insurance in the 19th minute, securing a valuable point for the hosts.
This round of matches has further shaken up the NPFL standings, with teams battling for position and momentum as the season heats up.
