Matchday 27 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) produced goals and major talking points across different centres, with Plateau United F.C. recording the biggest win of the round after a commanding 4-1 victory over Shooting Stars S.C. in Jos.
Shooting Stars made a bright start and stunned the home crowd when Qamar Adegoke opened the scoring in the 12th minute. Plateau United responded almost immediately, with Tarabina Biweribo equalising two minutes later to restore parity. The hosts then took control of the contest as Harrison Ebah put them ahead in the 25th minute. Vincent Temitope extended the advantage from the penalty spot in the 55th minute before Alao Danbani sealed an emphatic win with a fourth goal ten minutes later and to give Head Coach Gbenga Ogunbote massive bragging rights over his former side.
In Owerri, Kun Khalifat F.C. secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes F.C.. Adamu Mohammed opened the scoring in the 26th minute, and Oghenetega Ebetomame doubled the lead deep into first half stoppage time to wrap up the points.
Nasarawa United F.C. edged Bendel Insurance F.C. 1-0 in Lafia thanks to John Joshua’s 41st minute strike in a tightly contested encounter. Former champions Kano Pillars F.C. were dominant at home as they defeated El Kanemi Warriors F.C. 3-0. Veteran Rabiu Ali opened the scoring in the 13th minute, Luis Dadong added a second before halftime, and Chiedozie Okorie completed the scoring early in the second half.
In Port Harcourt, Rivers United F.C. were held to a 1-1 draw by Enyimba F.C.. Abiodun Joseph gave Enyimba the lead in the 28th minute, but Aniekeme Okon equalised just before the break. Newcomers Ikorodu City F.C. also played out a 1-1 draw with Bayelsa United F.C.. Ettah Ikoi put Bayelsa ahead in the 35th minute before Olanrewaju Molade levelled matters in the 64th minute. Katsina United F.C. and Rangers International F.C. settled for a goalless draw in a cagey affair.
On Saturday, defending champions Remo Stars F.C. suffered a 2-1 defeat to Wikki Tourists F.C. in Jos. Jonathan Mairiga gave Wikki the lead in the 10th minute and Hassan Musa doubled the advantage in first half added time. Samson Olasupo pulled one back for Remo in the 82nd minute, but the champions could not find an equaliser. The defeat leaves the Sky Blue Stars bottom of the table with 27 points from 27 matches, increasing their relegation concerns.
Elsewhere, Barau F.C. extended their unbeaten NPFL run to six matches with a 0-0 draw against Warri Wolves F.C. in Ozoro. Barau’s disciplined defensive display and key saves from goalkeeper Chisom Chiah earned them a valuable point, lifting them to 12th place on 34 points, while Warri Wolves sit 10th with 35 points.
The latest round of NPFL results further intensifies the battle for continental qualification places and survival as the season enters a decisive stage.
