It was another exciting weekend in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), as late drama, crucial away wins, and fierce rivalries shaped Matchday 7.
Fans across the country were treated to a thrilling set of games that showed the league’s growing competitiveness.
At the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, Shooting Stars continued their resurgence with a dramatic 1-0 win over Plateau United. Ismail Ayodele struck deep into stoppage time to secure a third consecutive victory for the Oluyole Warriors. After a poor start with four winless games, 3SC now look like they’ve found their rhythm.
Meanwhile, league leaders Nasarawa United held firm at the summit after a hard-fought 1-0 away win over Bendel Insurance. Mohammed Garba’s 93rd-minute strike earned the Solid Miners their fourth consecutive victory. They remain unbeaten in six matches, with 16 points from seven games keeping them clear at the top.
Northern derby sparks fireworks in Maiduguri
The highly anticipated clash between El-Kanemi Warriors and Kano Pillars lived up to its billing. Daddy Abdulrahman opened the scoring in the 62nd minute before Olakunle Akala equalised for Pillars in the 80th. However, Abdulrahman struck again just a minute later to hand El-Kanemi a memorable 2-1 victory.
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Rivers hold Enyimba
Elsewhere, the heavyweight meeting between Enyimba and Rivers United ended goalless in Aba. Both sides had opportunities but failed to take them. Despite the stalemate, Enyimba remain second on the log, three points off Nasarawa United. Rivers United, however, slipped to fourth with 12 points from six matches.
Abia Warriors edge Kwara United
Abia Warriors also continued their fine form with a 1-0 away win over Kwara United in Ilorin. Emeka Obioma converted from the penalty spot shortly after halftime, giving Imama Amapakabo’s side a third straight victory. Remarkably, they achieved all three wins without conceding a goal.
Barau FC lose at home as Wolves claim narrow victory
In Kano, Warri Wolves finally broke their five-game winless streak by edging Barau FC 1-0. Justus Ohanu’s first-half strike proved decisive, handing the Wolves a badly needed lift.
Bayelsa, Ikorodu City share spoils
There was frustration in Yenagoa, where Bayelsa United were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw with Ikorodu City. Emo James had given Bayelsa the lead in the 26th minute, but Tosin Oyedokun equalised seven minutes from time. While Ikorodu City have managed just one win in seven outings, Bayelsa United remain without victory in their last five.
The matchday concludes on Monday as Remo Stars take on Wikki Tourists in the final fixture of Week 7.
Tags: #NPFL26, Matchday 7, El-Kanemi, Kano Pillars, Wikki Tourists, Nasarawa United, Kwara United, Ikorodu City, Shooting Stars, 3SC.
