Another thrilling weekend of Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) action saw crucial victories, surprising results, and a shake-up in the league standings. As the season progresses, teams continue to battle for supremacy, survival, and continental spots. Here’s a recap of the major highlights from Matchday 27.
Remo Stars Maintain Top Spot with Narrow Win
Remo Stars strengthened their grip on the NPFL summit with a 1-0 victory over Plateau United in Ikenne. Samson Olasupo proved to be the match-winner, scoring the decisive goal 14 minutes from time. The result extends Remo Stars’ lead to an impressive 14 points, keeping them firmly in control of the title race.
Ikorodu City Climbs to Sixth After Beating Heartland
In Lagos, Ikorodu City continued their strong run with a 2-0 triumph over Heartland. Goals from Leonard Ngenge and Ayomide Cole secured all three points for the Oga Boys, pushing them up to sixth place in the league standings.
Enyimba Grabs Crucial Away Win Against Niger Tornadoes
Defending champions Enyimba secured a valuable 1-0 away victory against Niger Tornadoes at the Lafia City Stadium. Joseph Atule’s 62nd-minute strike was enough to seal the win, keeping the People’s Elephant in the hunt for a top finish.
Bayelsa United Stages Comeback to Sink Bendel Insurance
Bayelsa United came from behind to defeat Bendel Insurance 2-1 in an entertaining encounter. Kayode Oke had given Insurance the lead nine minutes before halftime, but John Emo equalized in added time of the first half. The hosts completed their comeback when Bina Tombiri struck the winner in the 65th minute.
Kano Pillars Edge Defending Champions Rangers in Hard-Fought Clash
At the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano Pillars secured a 2-1 victory over defending champions Enugu Rangers in front of Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle. Rangers took the lead through a Bashir Usman penalty in the 33rd minute, but veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali equalized from the spot just before halftime. Jerry Alex then fired home the winner on the hour mark, handing Pillars a vital three points, and extend their unbeaten run to five games.
Abia Warriors and Nasarawa United Share the Spoils
Abia Warriors and Nasarawa United played out a 1-1 draw at the Umuahia Township Stadium. Sunday Megwo put the hosts ahead in the 36th minute, but Mohammed Garba responded for Nasarawa United four minutes before the break, ensuring both sides settled for a point.
More Action Set for Monday
Matchday 27 will wrap up on Monday with three more fixtures. Shooting Stars take on Rivers United, Akwa United face Katsina United, and El Kanemi Warriors battle Lobi Stars.