The past weekend delivered thrilling action across the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) as teams battled for vital points in various stadiums nationwide. Here’s a roundup of the key matches and results:
Shooting Stars Secure First Away Win of the Season
Shooting Stars edged Sunshine Stars 1-0 in an intense South West derby at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, on Saturday. Otakho Aghahowa’s decisive goal in the 28th minute sealed the Oluyole Warriors’ first away victory of the season. Sunshine Stars, meanwhile, extended their winless streak to three games, adding to their struggles.
Nasarawa United Triumph Over Lobi Stars
Earlier on Saturday, Nasarawa United recorded a 1-0 win over Lobi Stars. Kamal Adejoke found the back of the net in the 12th minute, giving the hosts a much-needed victory.
Remo Stars Regain Top Spot
Sunday saw Remo Stars reclaim their position at the summit of the league table with a convincing 2-0 victory over El Kanemi Warriors in Ikenne. Peter Onuoha broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, while Franck Mawuena doubled the lead during first-half stoppage time. With 29 points from 16 matches, Remo Stars lead the table on goal difference ahead of Rivers United.
Rangers Extend Unbeaten Run to 10 Games
Defending champions Enugu Rangers continued their impressive form, extending their unbeaten streak to 10 games with a 1-0 win over Rivers United at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium. Collins Ugwueze’s 15th-minute goal lifted Rangers to third place with 27 points, just two behind the top two.
Bayelsa United End Ikorodu City’s Unbeaten Run
In Yenagoa, Bayelsa United halted Ikorodu City’s six-game unbeaten streak with a late 1-0 victory. Rabiu Abdullahi’s strike in the 79th minute proved decisive for the home side.
Kano Pillars End Winless Streak
At the Sanni Abacha Stadium, Kano Pillars finally returned to winning ways, securing their first victory in four games with a 1-0 triumph over Katsina United. Abba Adam’s goal was the difference in a closely contested match.
Abia Warriors Overcome Niger Tornadoes
Abia Warriors defeated Niger Tornadoes 2-1 in a lively encounter. Ijeoma Desouza opened the scoring in the 21st minute, and an Ernest Okonkwo own goal in the 56th minute doubled the Warriors’ lead. Tornadoes’ Ahmed Family managed a consolation goal in added time.
Plateau United Outscore Heartland in a Five-Goal Thriller
In Jos, Plateau United edged Heartland 3-2 in an entertaining clash. Sunday Anthony scored twice for the hosts, while Pam Mafeng added a third. Heartland’s Tobi Iyanda netted both goals for the visitors, but it wasn’t enough to avoid defeat.
