Matchday 26 of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) delivered major twists at both ends of the table, with Ikorodu City claiming a famous away win over Enyimba International, while Remo Stars dropped more points in their fight to avoid relegation.
In Aba, Enyimba endured a disappointing afternoon as they fell 1-0 at home to Ikorodu City. Joseph Arumala’s strike in the 29th minute proved decisive, as the visitors defended resolutely to secure all three points against the nine time champions. The victory strengthens Ikorodu City’s title push, moving them to 44 points, one ahead of Enugu Rangers and three clear of Rivers United, who still have five outstanding matches to play.
At the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Shooting Stars Sports Club produced an attacking display to defeat Warri Wolves 4-2. Warri Wolves took the lead in the seventh minute through Peter Ita, but Sodiq Ibrahim equalised four minutes later. Lucky Emmanuel put Shooting Stars ahead in the 29th minute before Desmond Ojietefian extended the advantage in the 38th minute, giving the Ibadan based side a 3-1 lead at halftime. Shooting Stars maintained control after the break to seal an emphatic home victory at their adopted ground.
Rangers International secured a comfortable 2-0 win over Wikki Tourists. Wisdom Ebirim opened the scoring in the 18th minute and Godwin Obaje added a second in the 33rd minute to move Rangers up to second place on the table.
In Akure, Remo Stars were held to a 1-1 draw by Abia Warriors. Chukwuemeka Obioma gave the visitors the lead in the 54th minute, but Samson Olasupo equalised in the 78th minute to rescue a point for the defending champions. The result leaves Remo Stars’ NPFL status in serious danger as they remain entangled in the relegation battle.
Elsewhere, Bayelsa United and Bendel Insurance played out a goalless draw in a tightly contested encounter, with neither side able to convert their chances.
In Ilorin, Kwara United and Kano Pillars shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw in a crucial relegation clash. Johnmark Aule put the hosts ahead in the 10th minute before Luis Dadong equalised for Kano Pillars in the 79th minute. The result leaves Kano Pillars in 17th and Kwara United in 18th place.
Katsina United edged Nasarawa United 1-0, with Boubacar Massaly scoring the winner in the 81st minute to secure maximum points for the home side.
Earlier in the round on Saturday, Barau FC defeated Kun Khalifat 1-0, thanks to a decisive goal from Joseph Atule. The forward, who joined during the mid season transfer window, came off the bench to score the winner in just his second appearance for the Kano based club, adding further drama to an eventful matchday.
