By Tolulope Oguntimehin
In a midweek packed with twists and nail-biting finishes, the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) once again proved why it is one of the most unpredictable leagues in the world.
The Ikenne landlords, Remo Stars, almost left it too late, but like a cat with nine lives, clawed their way to a dramatic 2-0 victory over Kwara United. What many expected to be a walk in the park turned into a nerve-wracking affair, as Kwara United executed their game-plan to near perfection.
However, Samuel Anakwe and Hadi Haruna had other ideas, delivering two stunning blows that left Kwara United general manager, Mallam Bashir Badawiy, in utter disbelief. With this win, Remo Stars stretched their lead at the top to a commanding 10 points, further solidifying their title ambitions.
Meanwhile, Enyimba’s woes deepened as former Abia Warriors striker Bello Lukman came back to haunt them, netting two quickfire goals in the 40th and 52nd minute. Despite Ekene Awazie pulling one back from the penalty spot in stoppage time, it was too little, too late for the People’s Elephant. Katsina United celebrated a hard-fought victory, leaving Enyimba’s title hopes hanging by a thread.
In Umuahia, Abia Warriors continued their meteoric rise, staking their claim to a spot that many thought belonged to Enyimba by birthright. Antoine Ijoma, Abia Warriors new goal machine, who has been able to complement Sunday Megwo’s efforts, sealed a crucial victory over Rangers International, propelling the ‘Umu Chineke Boys’ further up the log table.
Meanwhile, Bendel Insurance, rejuvenated by a recent NFF disciplinary committee decision that returned three points deducted earlier in the season for infraction, played with renewed vigour at El-Kanemi Warriors. Their newfound form was on full display as they held El-Kanemi Warriors to a goalless draw in Maiduguri, however, the hosts have been grappling with a rough patch ever since their head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, departed for national duties, leaving them to navigate uncharted waters.
Down at the bottom, relegation-threatened Akwa United could not find a way past Rivers United, as the two sides played out a 1-1 draw in Uyo. Mare Abson scored for Akwa United to cancel out Ubong Friday’s goal in a match that did little to ease Akwa’s relegation fears.
Bayelsa United, on the other hand, relied on the heroics of Ifeanyi Ogba, who struck in the 98th minute to salvage a draw against Nasarawa United in a 2-2 draw in Yenagoa. Idris Ajiya’s brace had put Nasarawa in the driving seat, but Bayelsa’s never-say-die attitude ensured they claimed a point.
In Ibadan, title hopeful Shooting Stars (3SC) were left stunned by a diligent Lobi Stars, who played with a fire that had been missing all season. Despite the shock resignation of their head coach, Daniel Amokachi, just days before the match, Lobi Stars delivered an inspired performance. Joshua Akpan put 3SC ahead, but Ossy Martins’ brace turned the game on its head before Sodiq Ibrahim’s equalizer saved 3SC from an embarrassing home defeat. The match ended 2-2, leaving both teams with mixed feelings.
Elsewhere, Sunshine Stars and Kano Pillars shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw, while Ikorodu City came from behind to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory over Plateau United. Niger Tornadoes overcame a goal deficit to beat Naze Millionaires 2-1.
As the NPFL season enters its business end, the drama continues to unfold. From title chasers to relegation battlers, every match is a rollercoaster, and this midweek was no exception. Who will rise? Who will fall? One thing is certain: the NPFL never fails to deliver heart-stopping action.