Rangers FC extended their lead at the top of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) table with a commanding 2-0 away victory over Bayelsa United in Yenagoa on Sunday, solidifying their position as title favourites. The Flying Antelopes secured the win with goals in each half, maintaining their unbeaten run and pushing their points tally to 62 from 36 matches. This result further widens the gap between them and their closest rivals, as they continue to chase their first NPFL title in over a decade.
In another standout performance, Rivers United claimed a 3-0 triumph over Abia Warriors, with Wasiu Falolu, Timothy Zachariah, and Bello Babatunde all finding the back of the net. The victory propelled Rivers United into second place on the standings, behind Rangers. Meanwhile, in Ibadan, Shooting Stars surged into second position after a dramatic 3-2 win over Nasarawa United. Lucky Emmanuel opened the scoring with two goals in the first 24 minutes, but Nasarawa United responded through JoFrank Istifanus and Habibu Alakija. Qamar Adegoke sealed the win for Shooting Stars with a late goal 13 minutes before full time.
Enyimba, the nine-time champions, kept their survival hopes alive with a hard-fought 2-1 home victory over defending champions Remo Stars in Aba. Remo Stars took the lead through Victor Mbaoma in the 21st minute, but veteran winger Stanley Dimgba equalised just seven minutes later. Chidera Michael then netted the winner in the 49th minute, giving Enyimba a crucial three points in their battle against relegation.
Kun Khalifat also climbed out of the relegation zone after a 2-1 win over Kano Pillars. The match remained goalless at halftime, but Mmesoma Nnorom broke the deadlock 10 minutes after the restart. Luis Dadong pulled one back for Kano Pillars in the 85th minute, but Oghenetega Ebetomame struck in stoppage time to secure the win. Warri Wolves edged past Plateau United 1-0 in Ozoro, thanks to Tejiri Emonena’s decisive goal on the hour mark.
At the Sani Abacha Stadium, Barau FC delivered a dominant 3-0 performance against El-Kanemi Warriors, with goals from Sunday Anthony, Henry Ezeonye, and Joseph Atule. Elsewhere, Tornadoes and Kwara United played out a 2-2 draw, adding more intrigue to the league’s mid-table battle. With the season entering its final stretch, every point becomes critical as teams jostle for title glory, promotion, or survival. Rangers’ consistent form positions them as the team to beat, while others fight to close the gap or avoid relegation.
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