NPFL Gameweek 7: Drama Unfolds Across Nigeria’s Premier Football League
The seventh round of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) delivered another compelling weekend of football, featuring unexpected victories, last-minute drama, and weather interruptions across various venues.
Abia Warriors continued their impressive form with a crucial 1-0 away victory against Kwara United at the Kwara Sports Complex. The decisive moment came in the 48th minute when Emeka Obioma successfully converted a penalty awarded after Kwara’s goalkeeper handled an indirect ball in the penalty area. This victory marks Abia Warriors’ second consecutive win, following their midweek triumph over champions Remo Stars, while mounting pressure increases on Kwara United’s head coach Tunde Sanni.
In Ibadan, Shooting Stars SC secured a dramatic victory at the Lekan Salami Stadium through Ismail Ayodele’s 94th-minute winner, sparking jubilant celebrations among home supporters. The match seemed destined for a draw until Ayodele’s late intervention maintained the team’s recent positive momentum.
The heavyweight clash between Enyimba and Rivers United in Aba ended in a goalless draw, with both teams maintaining their unbeaten records this season. Meanwhile, Kun Khalifat earned a 1-1 draw at Niger Tornadoes, with Akuta Ugochukwu’s 81st-minute equalizer canceling out Abba Khalid’s spectacular 30-yard first-half strike.
Bayelsa United’s struggles continued as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Ikorodu City. Eno James put the hosts ahead in the 26th minute, but Tosin Oyedokun’s 83rd-minute penalty secured a point for the visitors. In Kano, Warri Wolves, despite recently suspending coach Napoleon Aluma, secured a 1-0 victory over Barau FC through Justus Ohanu’s 29th-minute goal.
The fixture between Rangers International and Katsina United in Enugu was interrupted after 60 minutes due to heavy rainfall, with the score at 0-0. The remaining 30 minutes were scheduled to be completed the following day.
This round of matches further emphasized the NPFL’s reputation for unpredictability and drama, showcasing why it remains one of Nigeria’s most engaging sporting competitions.
