The 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season witnessed several crucial matches on Sunday, dramatically shifting the standings and intensifying the battle against relegation and for continental qualification. Akwa United, former champions grappling with the threat of relegation, secured a vital 2-0 away victory against Kwara United. This win, their first on the road this season, provided a much-needed boost to their survival hopes. Capitalizing on a red card issued to Kwara United defender Segun Adekunle, Akwa United quickly seized the advantage with Kabiru Osoba’s goal. Uche Sebastine’s second-half strike solidified the victory, propelling Akwa United to 17th place and within two points of safety. This win injected a renewed sense of hope into Akwa United’s campaign and underscored the unpredictable nature of the NPFL.
In Port Harcourt, Rivers United, also former champions, continued their pursuit of league leaders Remo Stars with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against newly promoted Ikorodu City. The decisive moment arrived in stoppage time when defender Stephen Manyo secured the winning goal, highlighting the team’s resilience and determination. With this win, Rivers United narrowed the gap with Remo Stars to five points, although Remo Stars have a game in hand. The race for the NPFL title remains tightly contested, promising an exciting finish to the season.
An “Oriental Derby” between Abia Warriors and Heartland FC resulted in a 1-0 away win for Abia Warriors, pushing Heartland back into the relegation zone. Ojonugwa Adejoh’s late free-kick proved to be the difference, further highlighting the importance of set-pieces in football. This victory elevated Abia Warriors to third place, five points behind second-placed Rivers United, firmly placing them in contention for a continental ticket. The NPFL’s competitive landscape is evident as teams battle for coveted top spots and continental qualification.
Shooting Stars, based in Ibadan, snapped their seven-game winless streak with a convincing 3-1 victory over Niger Tornadoes. This win revitalized their hopes of securing a continental ticket and demonstrated their ability to bounce back from a difficult period. The victory underscored the importance of maintaining momentum in a long and demanding season. Shooting Stars’ resurgence adds another layer of complexity to the battle for continental qualification.
Katsina United delivered a dominant performance at home, thrashing El Kanemi 3-0. This emphatic win showcased their strength on home turf and underscored their potential to be a disruptive force in the league. Meanwhile, Enyimba, another traditional powerhouse, were held to a 1-1 draw by visiting Bayelsa United in Aba. This unexpected result further highlighted the competitive nature of the NPFL and the challenges faced by even the most established teams.
The weekend’s results have significantly reshaped the dynamics of the NPFL. The relegation battle has intensified, with teams like Akwa United fighting tooth and nail for survival. Simultaneously, the race for the title and continental qualification remains fiercely contested, with several teams vying for top spots. The NPFL continues to deliver exciting and unpredictable outcomes, showcasing the growth and development of Nigerian football. As the season progresses, the stakes will only get higher, promising a thrilling climax to the 2024/25 campaign. The fight for survival and the pursuit of glory will undoubtedly captivate fans and observers alike.
