Matchday 32 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) delivered drama, late winners, relegation twists, and even a touch of chaos as teams across the league fought for points at both ends of the table.
Rivers United Narrow the Gap in Title Race
Rivers United breathed new life into their title ambitions with a crucial 1-0 win over table-toppers Remo Stars in Port Harcourt. David Sholumade emerged the hero, scoring the decisive goal six minutes from time. The win trims Remo Stars’ lead at the summit to five points, although they still have a game in hand.
Enyimba Win Oriental Derby Thriller
In a fiery Oriental Derby, Enyimba staged a comeback to defeat Abia Warriors 2-1. Ijoma Desouza put Enyimba ahead after 20 minutes, but the People’s Elephant found themselves behind through goals from Kalu Nweke and Joseph Atule. The victory keeps Enyimba in the hunt for a strong finish.
Nasarawa United Keep Survival Hopes Alive
Nasarawa United picked up a vital 2-0 win over Akwa United at the Lafia City Stadium, boosting their fight against relegation. Leonard Ugochukwu got the hosts off to a flying start just two minutes in, before Abubakar Garba sealed the deal with a late second.
Niger Tornadoes Cruise Past El-Kanemi Warriors
Niger Tornadoes also enjoyed a solid outing, defeating El-Kanemi Warriors 2-0. Mohammed Hussaini and Ahmed Family were on target, securing all three points and some breathing space in the middle of the table.
Stalemates in Makurdi, Jos, and Benin
Lobi Stars and Sunshine Stars shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw. Ahmadu Liman gave Sunshine Stars the lead early on, only for Johnmark Atule to level after the break.
Elsewhere, Plateau United were held to a goalless draw by Kwara United in Jos, while Enugu Rangers fought hard to claim a valuable 0-0 draw away to Bendel Insurance in Benin City. The point keeps Rangers fifth with 46 points.
Heartland FC Stun Kano Pillars in Relegation Fight
Heartland FC produced one of their best performances of the season with a 2-0 win over Kano Pillars in Owerri. Samuel Agu was the star of the show, scoring twice – the first coming just before halftime, and the second a brilliant free kick in the 77th minute. The win gives Heartland a lifeline in their relegation battle.
Southwest Derby Ends in Violence After Goalless Draw
The highly anticipated Southwest derby between Shooting Stars and Ikorodu City ended in a goalless draw in Ibadan, a result that dealt a blow to 3SC’s continental hopes. Shooting Stars sit fourth with 48 points, while Ikorodu City are close behind in sixth with 46.
However, the headlines were stolen by post-match chaos. Multiple reports confirm that players and officials of Ikorodu City were attacked and held hostage by angry 3SC fans. Their team bus was damaged, and several travelling supporters were reportedly injured in the melee that followed the final whistle.
