Action returned in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) over the weekend after a three-week hiatus due to the just-concluded Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
A total of 18 goals were recorded, with seven home wins and three draws wrapping up an explosive matchday.
Remo Stars reclaimed the top spot after a goalless draw against Abia Warriors at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba.
Playing in their adopted home ground, Abia Warriors struggled to break down Remo Stars, who have impressed with their squad depth and tactical brilliance under head coach Daniel Ogunmodede.
Bayelsa United boosted their hopes of survival with a 2-0 win against Gombe United at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa on Sunday. An own goal and Ifeanyi Assurance's strike ensured the hosts claimed all three points.
Nwagua bags first hat-trick of 2024
Rivers United edged Doma United 3-2 in a thrilling encounter at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt.
Captain Nyima Nwagua scored a hat-trick to secure victory for the Pride of Rivers, who were under pressure to secure a win at home after back-to-back losses.
Sporting Lagos continued their winning streak with a 1-0 victory over Bendel Insurance at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena Stadium, Onikan. New signing Michael Tochukwu sealed the deal for the Tech Boys with a decisive goal.
Enyimba do the double over Shooting Stars
Enyimba secured a 1-0 win over Shooting Stars, becoming the first team to do a double over their opposition this NPFL season. Chijioke Mbaoma's goal propelled Enyimba to third on the NPFL log.
Plateau United emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Lobi Stars at the New Jos Stadium. Despite Suur Kumaga's consolation goal for Lobi Stars, Plateau United maintained their 100 percent home record this season.
Sunshine Stars and Kwara United played out a 1-1 draw in Akure. Promise Awosanmi put Sunshine Stars ahead before Abubakar Garba equalized for Kwara United.
Rangers are impeccable at the Cathedral
Katsina United secured a late 1-0 win over Niger Tornadoes, courtesy of Andrew Idoko's stoppage-time goal. Heartland FC and Kano Pillars had to settle for a 1-1 draw, with Malachi Ohawume's late goal rescuing a point for Heartland.
Rangers International clinched a 1-0 victory over Akwa United, thanks to Kenneth Igboke's strike. The match was characterised by close chances for both teams, highlighting the intense battle on the pitch.
Overall, it was an action-packed weekend in the NPFL, with teams showcasing their determination and resilience as they vie for crucial points in the league standings.
Full NPFL Results
- Abia Warriors 0-0 Remo Stars
- Bayelsa United 2-0 Gombe United
- Rivers United 3-2 Doma United
- Sporting Lagos 1-0 Bendel Insurance
- Enyimba 1-0 Shooting Stars
- Plateau United 2-1 Lobi Stars
- Sunshine Stars 1-1 Kwara United
- Katsina United 1-0 Niger Tornadoes
- Heartland 1-1 Kano Pillars
- Rangers Int'l 1-0 Akwa United
