Though there were other thrilling matches throughout the nation on Matchday 24 of the Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL as all eyes was focused on Enyimba’s vital 1-0 victory over Rivers United, which has a big impact on the fight for continental qualifying.
Imo Obot’s incredible free-kick in the 41st minute gave Enyimba a crucial 1-0 victory over Rivers United.
With 34 points, the victory puts Enyimba in 10th place on the standings and strengthens their hopes of finishing in the top three.
The chasing group is now putting pressure on Rivers United, who are now in third position with 38 points.
Nwankwo Kanu, the chairperson of Enyimba FC, has kindly opened the gate so that supporters can see their beloved club for free.
That choice paid off, as the supporters contributed to the final triumph.
Matthew Samuel’s goal in the 29th minute proved to be the difference in Sunshine Stars’ close 1-0 triumph over Akwa United.
Samuel’s goal, which was assisted by Waheed Adebayo, maintains Sunshine Stars in the running for a successful season finale.
Katsina United and Lobi split the prizes. Katsina United held Lobi Stars to a 1-1 draw at home.
Lobi had taken the lead in the 69th minute thanks to Tope Akande, but Promise Damala tied the score late in the second half to earn Katsina a vital away goal.
After holding Nasarawa United to a scoreless draw in Lafia, Ikorodu City also secured important away points.
Plateau United defeats El-Kanemi with ease. Plateau United defeated El-Kanemi Warriors 2-0, enhancing their chances of surviving.
Before Olawale Doyeni’s well-placed finish with Albert Hillary’s help in the 81st minute sealed the victory, Emmanuel Ihezuo scored from the penalty spot in the 41st minute.
With 28 points, Plateau United is still in 15th place despite the win.
Mustapha Umar’s goal in the 42nd minute of the first half was sufficient to give Kano Pillars a spirited 1-0 victory over Abia Warriors.
With the victory, Kano Pillars moves up to eighth place with 35 points, tying a number of other mid-table competitors.
Kwara United narrowly defeated Bayelsa United 1-0 thanks to a strike from Wasiu Jimoh in the 78th minute.
Kwara United, who currently sit seventh with 35 points, and Bayelsa United, who are still in 14th place with 29 points, are both in the running for continental football next season thanks to the three points.
With 48 points from 23 games, the Remo Stars are still ahead of the Shooting Stars, who are in second position with 40 points, by eight points.
With 38 points, Rivers United is in third place.
The top five is completed by Abia Warriors (36 points) and Enugu Rangers (35 points).
Sunshine Stars are still in the relegation zone at the bottom of the standings with 27 points, while Akwa United and Nasarawa United are in the midst of the relegation race in 18th and 19th place, respectively.
With 22 points from 24 games, Lobi Stars are currently at the bottom of the league standings.