In a thrilling encounter that showcased the intensity of Nigerian football, holders Remo Stars edged past their rivals, Shooting Stars, securing a narrow 1-0 victory in Ikenne on Sunday. The match proved pivotal for Remo Stars, who now climb to 17th position in the NPFL standings.
The defining moment arrived just four minutes after the halftime break, when Samuel Anakwe displayed remarkable skill. After a brilliant run down the left flank and a deft dummy by Victor Mbaoma, Anakwe found the back of the net, leaving the opponent’s goalkeeper with no chance.
Meanwhile, in Enugu, Rangers managed to reclaim the top spot in the league despite being held to a goalless draw against Barau FC. This result sees them maintain a precarious lead over Rivers United, who slipped to second following a 2-0 defeat against Warri Wolves in Ozoro.
The Wolves surged ahead early in their match, with Igbunu Evwierhurhoma converting a penalty in the 12th minute. Othuke Egbo then sealed the victory with a goal in the dying moments of the match, scoring right at the 90-minute mark.
In a shocking upset, fourth-placed Nasarawa United fell 1-0 to Kun Khalifat FC, with Stanley Otu scoring the crucial goal deep into stoppage time at the Lafia City Stadium.
On a more dominating note, Kano Pillars delivered the day’s largest victory, thrashing Bendel Insurance 4-0. The impressive performance saw goals from Mustapha Jibrin, Chiedozie Okorie, Muhammad Aminu, and Bernard Ovoke.
Elsewhere, Kwara United continued their strong form with a convincing 3-0 victory against El-Kanemi Warriors, thanks to goals from Junior Aimufua, Samsudeen Mohammed, and Abdulsalam Abdulsalam. Additionally, Katsina United secured a narrow 1-0 win over Niger Tornadoes, with Elijah Akanni scoring the decisive goal in the 65th minute.
Full Results
Kwara Utd 3-0 El-Kanemi
Remo Stars 1-0 3SC
Rangers 0-0 Barau
Katsina Utd 1-0 Tornadoes
Kano Pillars 4-0 Bendel Insurance
Wolves 2-0 Rivers Utd
Nasarawa Utd 0-1 Kun Khalifat
By Adeboye Amosu