The second stanza of the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) resumed with electrifying action over the weekend as Matchday 20 unfolded across various stadiums in the country. Here’s a roundup of the key highlights:
Remo Stars Extend Their Lead in Uyo
League leaders Remo Stars continued their impressive form with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Akwa United at the Nest of Champions in Uyo. Akwa United took an early lead in the 6th minute through Uche Sabastine and held onto their advantage until halftime. However, Remo Stars fought back in the second half, with Samuel Anakwe equalizing in the 74th minute. Olamilekan Adedayo sealed the comeback with a dramatic winner just five minutes from time.
With this victory, Daniel Ogunmodede’s men remain at the top of the table with 39 points from 20 matches.
Rivers United Stumble in Jos
Rivers United’s title hopes suffered a setback as they fell to a 2-1 defeat against Plateau United in Jos. Olawale Doyeni put Plateau United ahead in the 21st minute, but Rivers United leveled the score through Ndifreke Effiong just before halftime. The game appeared to be heading for a draw until Emmanuel Ihezuo struck deep into stoppage time to secure a crucial win for the home side.
Heartland Edge Lobi Stars in Owerri
At the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri, Emmanuel Amuneke’s Heartland FC triumphed over Daniel Amokachi’s Lobi Stars in a tightly contested encounter. A solitary goal from John Bassey proved decisive as Heartland bagged all three points.
Rangers Fall at Home to Niger Tornadoes
Defending champions Enugu Rangers suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium against Niger Tornadoes. Ismail Sarki opened the scoring for Tornadoes in the 17th minute, but Rangers responded swiftly with Collins Ugwueze equalizing four minutes later. Tornadoes regained the lead in the 64th minute through Ifeanyi Okechukwu. Rangers had a chance to salvage a point in stoppage time, but Chiedozie Okorie missed a crucial penalty. The defeat marks Rangers’ second home loss of the season.
Nasarawa United Boost Survival Hopes
Nasarawa United secured a vital 1-0 win over Katsina United at the Lafia City Stadium. Qamar Adegoke’s 34th-minute strike proved to be the difference as Nasarawa United continue their fight against relegation.
Sunshine Win Southwest Derby Thriller
Fans were treated to a goal fest as Sunshine Stars of Akure edged Ikorodu City 4-3 in an exhilarating Southwest derby. Alao Danlami starred with a brace for Sunshine Stars, while Peter Awosanmi and Ahmadu Liman added to the tally. Ikorodu City also saw strong performances, with Shola Adelani scoring twice and Emmanuel Solomon contributing a goal, but it wasn’t enough to avoid defeat.
Abia Warriors Hold Firm in Umuahia
Abia Warriors secured a slim 1-0 win over Bayelsa United in Umuahia. Sunday Megwo’s 5th-minute goal proved decisive as the Warriors claimed all three points to maintain their push for a strong finish in the league.
