Matchday 28 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) delivered intense action across various venues, with leaders Remo Stars suffering a setback, while Ikorodu City and Rivers United secured crucial wins to boost their title ambitions.
Remo Stars Slip in Benin as Bendel Insurance Triumph
League leaders Remo Stars fell to a 2-1 defeat against Bendel Insurance at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on Saturday. Insurance wasted no time in making their mark, as Meyinwa Oritseweyinmi put them ahead just two minutes into the game. He doubled the advantage ten minutes after the break, leaving Remo Stars struggling. Arinze Anakwe pulled one back for the visitors eight minutes from time, but it was too little, too late.
Shooting Stars’ Woes Continue with Last-Gasp Defeat in Katsina
Shooting Stars’ winless streak extended to five matches following a heartbreaking 1-0 loss to Katsina United at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium on Friday. The game seemed destined for a draw until Ahmed Taofeek struck deep into stoppage time to seal victory for the home side. This defeat saw Shooting Stars drop to fourth place, dealing a blow to their title aspirations.
Enyimba Edge El-Kanemi Warriors in Aba
Enyimba continued their fine form with a 1-0 win over El-Kanemi Warriors at home on Sunday. Joseph Atule’s 29th-minute strike proved decisive, securing all three points for the nine-time champions. With this victory, Enyimba extended their unbeaten run to three matches.
Akwa United Hold Holders Bayelsa United to Ease Relegation Fears
Akwa United took a step toward safety after earning a 1-1 draw against defending champions Bayelsa United. Osoba Kabir opened the scoring for Akwa United in the 24th minute, but Isaac Saviour equalized for the hosts just three minutes into the second half, ensuring a share of the spoils.
Rivers United Narrow the Gap with Late Winner
At the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers United secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Niger Tornadoes. Samson Obi found the net seven minutes from time, helping his team close in on league leaders Remo Stars.
Ikorodu City Claim the Only Away Win of the Week
Ikorodu City registered the only away victory of Matchday 28, defeating bottom-placed Lobi Stars 1-0 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu. Shola Adelani struck nine minutes from time, lifting the Oga Boys to third in the standings.
Kwara United Cruise Past Kano Pillars
Kwara United enjoyed a comfortable 2-0 win over Kano Pillars in Ilorin. Wasiu Alalade and Wasiu Jimoh were on target for the home side, sealing an important victory.
Nasarawa United and Sunshine Stars Share the Spoils in Relegation Battle
The battle to avoid relegation intensified as Nasarawa United and Sunshine Stars played out a 1-1 draw at the Lafia City Stadium. Idris Ajiya put the home side ahead, but Ahmadu Liman equalized nine minutes before halftime. Both teams remain in the danger zone.
Plateau United Secure Narrow Win Over Abia Warriors
Olayemi Doyeni was the hero for Plateau United, converting a penalty to secure a 1-0 victory over Abia Warriors. The win gives Plateau United a crucial boost as they continue their fight for a higher finish.
As the season enters its final stretch, the NPFL title race remains open, Remo Stars lead with eight points with 10 games to go. Can they hold on, or will the chasing pack catch up? Stay tuned for more action in the coming weeks!
