NPFL Drama: Enyimba End Slump, Abia Warriors Dethrone Rivals To Go Top

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) heavyweights, Enyimba FC, finally snapped their five-game winless streak with a commanding 2–0 victory over Kano Pillars in Aba on Sunday, easing mounting pressure on head coach Stanley Eguma.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

John Bassey put the hosts ahead in the 29th minute after a well-orchestrated attacking move, before Edidiong Ezekiel doubled the lead six minutes later, calmly rounding goalkeeper Galadima following a defensive blunder from the visitors.

The People’s Elephant dominated proceedings throughout and comfortably held on for their first win since September. The result lifted the two-time CAF Champions League winners to 16 points, while Pillars’ dismal campaign continued, leaving them anchored to the bottom of the NPFL standings.

Meanwhile, Abia Warriors continued their impressive run of form with a 2–1 away win over Niger Tornadoes in Minna — a result that propelled them to the top of the league table.

Sunday Megwo broke the deadlock in the 38th minute, and a Sunday Akinmoladun own goal just before halftime gave the visitors a cushion. Though Abdulrasheed Dabai pulled one back early in the second half, the Warriors held firm to secure all three points.

That victory, combined with Nasarawa United’s 1–0 loss to Rivers United, sent Abia Warriors to the summit with 21 points, two clear of second-placed Nasarawa, who still have a game in hand.

Eguma’s Enyimba will now turn their focus to a fiery Abia Derby against the league leaders in Umuahia — a clash expected to carry both bragging rights and title implications. Pillars, however, remain mired in crisis, battling both poor form and off-field instability.

Elsewhere, Rivers United returned to winning ways with a 1–0 victory over Nasarawa United in Port Harcourt, thanks to Timothy Zachariah’s decisive strike just before halftime.

In Lagos, Ikorodu City extended their strong home form with a 2–0 win over Kun Khalifat, courtesy of goals from Chidera Oparaocha and Ibifubara Dagogo. The win moved the Oga Boys up to third on the log with 18 points, edging Warri Wolves on goal difference.

At the Lekan Salami Stadium, Shooting Stars and Katsina United settled for a 1–1 draw. Chigozie Ihejiofor opened scoring for the hosts before Chukwudi Ekeocha equalised in the 15th minute. Both sides remain level on 16 points, with 3SC slipping further down the table after a string of draws.

In Yenagoa, Bayelsa United staged a spirited comeback to defeat Plateau United 2–1, overturning an early setback. Gideon Monday gave Plateau the lead in the second minute, but Emo James struck twice in the 39th and 57th minutes to complete the turnaround.

Elsewhere, El-Kanemi Warriors and Enugu Rangers played out a goalless draw in Maiduguri, while Barau FC and Wikki Tourists also ended 0–0 in Kano. Barau’s fixture was held behind closed doors due to disciplinary sanctions, leaving them 18th on nine points, just above Insurance.

On Saturday, defending champions Remo Stars suffered another setback, losing 3–1 to Kwara United in Ilorin. Junior Aimufua’s brace and Babatunde Bright’s stunner sealed the win for the hosts, handing Remo their fourth defeat in five matches.

In Benin, Warri Wolves stayed within touching distance of the top after a 1–1 draw with Bendel Insurance. Alex Oweilayefa put Insurance ahead early, but Othuke Egbo’s well-placed free kick before halftime ensured a share of the spoils.

After Matchday 11, Abia Warriors lead the NPFL table with 21 points, followed by Nasarawa United (19), Ikorodu City (18), Warri Wolves (18), and Niger Tornadoes (17). Enyimba’s win pushed them to sixth place, while Kano Pillars languish at the bottom with just five points from ten matches.

Stay connected via Google News

Follow us for the latest travel updates and guides.