NPFL Derby Thriller: Sporting Lagos Dominate Inter, Barau FC Remain Unbeaten

NPFL Derby Thriller: Sporting Lagos Dominate Inter, Barau FC Remain Unbeaten

Sporting Lagos delivered a commanding performance in their local derby against Inter Lagos, securing a 3-0 victory at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos, on Sunday. The win marked a dominant display by Sporting Lagos, who took control early and never looked back. Sodiq Ayoade opened the scoring in the seventh minute with a precise finish, setting the tone for the match. After the break, Aliyu Baba extended the lead, showcasing the team’s attacking depth. Valentine Ogwu sealed the triumph with the third goal, completing a well-deserved and convincing win for the home side.

In Kano, Barau FC continued their strong start to the season with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Ranchers Bees at the Sani Abacha Stadium. Ahmadu Liman gave the hosts the lead just before the half-hour mark, but Ranchers Bees responded through Mohammed Rabiu Zulkifilu, who netted his fourth goal of the campaign with 10 minutes remaining. However, Barau FC’s resilience paid off as Kennedy Otunuya and Sugau Aliyu scored late goals to secure all three points and maintain their unbeaten record.

Meanwhile, in Aba, Abia Warriors and Ikorodu City shared the spoils in an entertaining 2-2 draw. Emeka Obioma was the hero for Abia Warriors, scoring twice to keep his team competitive. Ikorodu City fought back with goals from Ilechukwu Junior and Akorede Adeoye, ensuring both sides left the pitch with a point each. The match highlighted the growing competitiveness within the league as teams strive to climb the standings.

In Benin City, Bendel Insurance and Kun Khalifat FC served up a thrilling six-goal encounter at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium. The hosts surged ahead with three first-half goals from Alex Oweilayefa, Suraju Lawal, and Chinedu Nwosu. Kun Khalifat pulled one back through Uchechukwu Onuoha’s penalty in the 68th minute, but Nwosu quickly restored the three-goal advantage. Oghenetega Ebetomame added another for the visitors five minutes before full time, but Bendel Insurance held firm to claim a 4-2 victory.

Kwara United also recorded a clean sheet, defeating Katsina United 3-0 in Ilorin. Ali Ferinayo broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute, and the Harmony Boys added two more goals in the second half through Tosin Olawale and Issa Gata. The result strengthened Kwara United’s position in the league table.

These results reflect the intense competition across the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) as teams battle for points and position. With multiple matches producing high-scoring affairs and dramatic comebacks, fans are treated to exciting football week after week. The performances from Sporting Lagos, Barau FC, and Kwara United highlight the growing strength of clubs aiming to challenge for top spots in the season.