After a month-long break to allow Rivers United complete their outstanding matches, the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) witnessed thrilling encounters as hostilities resumed in the ongoing 2023/2024 season, with surprising results reverberating across various match venues in the country.
Defending champions, Enyimba FC, showcased their title-defense prowess with an impressive away triumph in Umuahia against Abia Warriors. Bernard Ovoke emerged as the hero, netting a solitary goal off the bench in the 72nd minute to secure victory for Enyimba. This crucial win propelled them to the second spot on the league table with 56 points, trailing league leaders Rangers International by four points.
In a surprising upset in Lafia, Akwa United stunned Lobi Stars with a 2-1 victory on enemy turf, shattering Lobi Stars’ unbeaten home record. This victory not only lifted Akwa United out of the relegation zone but also signaled their resurgence in the league.
History was etched in Port Harcourt as Seiyefa Jackson, the 2024 NPFL U-17 league champion and Golden Boot winner, marked his debut for Rivers United in grand style against Sporting Lagos. Jackson’s presence was immediately felt as he found the back of the net, contributing to Rivers United’s emphatic 4-1 victory over Sporting Lagos.
In other noteworthy developments, Wasiu Alalade’s lightning-fast 18-second goal against Remo Stars has now been recognized as the fastest goal scored in the ongoing NPFL season. This remarkable feat occurred as Kwara United emerged victorious in a pulsating five-goal thriller against Remo Stars, elevating them to the 11th position on the league standings.
NPFL Match Day 33 Results:
Lobi Stars 1-2 Akwa United
Katsina United 2-2 Shooting Stars
Abia Warriors 0-1 Enyimba FC
Kano Pillars 3-1 Doma United
Rangers 3-0 Bayelsa United
Kwara Utd 3-2 Remo Stars
Rivers Utd 4-1 Sporting Lagos
Sunshine Stars 0-0 Bendel Insurance
Heartland FC 3-0 Gombe United
Plateau United 0-0 Niger Tornadoes
