NPFL Round-Up: Away Wins And High Drama Define Matchday 11.
The excitement and unpredictability of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season continued on Matchday 11, with four teams securing crucial away victories. The weekend’s action was packed with late winners, stellar performances, and intense rivalries, keeping fans captivated across the country.
Ikorodu City Celebrate First Away Win in Katsina
Ikorodu City claimed their first away victory of the season in dramatic style, overturning a deficit to defeat Katsina United 2-1 at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium. Katsina struck first through Moses Effiong in the 18th minute, but Solomon Alade equalised for Ikorodu City just before halftime. As the match seemed destined for a draw, Emmanuel Solomon netted the winner in the 89th minute, securing all three points for the visitors.
Bayelsa United Triumph in South-South Derby
Bayelsa United’s under-pressure coach Ladan Bosso found relief with a vital 1-0 win over Rivers United in Port Harcourt. The tense South-South derby at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium showcased Bayelsa’s defensive prowess, holding off Rivers United’s attempts to equalise. This result dealt Rivers United, coached by Finidi George, their second consecutive league defeat.
Kwara United Edge Nasarawa United in Lafia
Kwara United joined the list of away winners by narrowly defeating Nasarawa United 1-0 at the Lafia City Stadium. Emmanuel Ogbole’s goal in first-half stoppage time proved decisive, earning Kwara United a valuable three points while deepening the struggles for the home side.
Kano Pillars Prevail Over Bendel Insurance in Benin
Kano Pillars continued their strong form with a narrow 1-0 win against Bendel Insurance in Benin City. Veteran Rabiu Ali converted a penalty in the dying moments of added time, securing the victory and adding pressure on Bendel Insurance to turn their fortunes around.
Shooting Stars End El-Kanemi’s Unbeaten Streak
Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) delighted their home crowd in Ibadan with a commanding 3-0 victory over El-Kanemi Warriors, ending the visitors’ unbeaten run. Goals from Samuel Ayanrinde, Abubakar Aliyu, and Adam Mustapha secured an emphatic win for the Oluyole Warriors.
Defensive Brilliance and Goalless Draws
In Aba, the anticipated top-of-the-table clash between Enyimba FC and Remo Stars ended goalless, with both teams demonstrating solid defensive play. Plateau United also held Enugu Rangers to a 0-0 draw in Jos, despite being down to 10 men, earning a commendable result given their disadvantage.
Home Win for Heartland and Niger Tornadoes
Heartland maintained their impressive form with a 1-0 victory over Sunshine Stars in Owerri, thanks to Christian Nnaemeka’s decisive goal, which extended coach Emmanuel Amuneke’s unbeaten run to three matches. Niger Tornadoes also enjoyed a home win, defeating Akwa United 1-0 in Minna with Papa Daniel’s second-half strike.
Matchday 11 Full Results:
– Heartland 1-0 Sunshine Stars
– Nasarawa United 0-1 Kwara United
– Bendel Insurance 0-1 Kano Pillars
– Niger Tornadoes 1-0 Akwa United
– Katsina United 1-2 Ikorodu City
– Rivers United 0-1 Bayelsa United
– Lobi Stars 3-1 Abia Warriors
– Enyimba 0-0 Remo Stars
– Plateau United 0-0 Enugu Rangers
– Shooting Stars 3-0 El-Kanemi Warriors
As the NPFL season heats up, away victories and surprising results continue to shape an exhilarating campaign. Fans eagerly await more thrilling matchdays that highlight the excitement and passion unique to Nigerian football.
