NPFL: Remo Stars Maintain Lead as Rivers United Stumbles in Title Contention

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Remo Stars have solidified their position at the top of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) standings, despite a goalless draw against Katsina United on Sunday. Under the management of Daniel Ogunmodede, the team now holds 62 points from 33 matches.

Rivers United had an opportunity to narrow the gap but suffered a 2-0 defeat to Abia Warriors, with Emmanuel Ogbuagu and Anthony Ijoma each contributing a goal for the victors.

In another match at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano Pillars secured a 2-0 win over Lobi Stars. Ahmed Musa opened the scoring in the 54th minute, and Naziru Auwalu extended the lead with a penalty in stoppage time.

Sunshine Stars improved their chances of avoiding relegation with a 2-1 victory against Enyimba. Elmer Arunta put the hosts ahead in the eighth minute, but Christian Nnaji equalized for Enyimba shortly before the half-hour mark. Waheed Adebayo then scored the decisive goal for Sunshine Stars just four minutes before halftime.

In Uyo, Akwa United and El-Kanemi Warriors played to a 1-1 draw. Osoba Kabir scored first for Akwa United in the 19th minute, while an own goal by Wisdom Ndon allowed El-Kanemi Warriors to level the match.

Heartland delivered a surprising 2-0 defeat to reigning champions Rangers in their oriental derby at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu. Suraju Lawal opened the scoring for Heartland in the 21st minute, and Isaac Nassy doubled their lead three minutes after the break.

Full Results:

Nasarawa United 2-1 Plateau United

Kano Pillars 2-0 Lobi

Sunshine Stars 2-1 Enyimba

Abia Warriors 2-0 Rivers United

Remo Stars 0-0 Katsina United

Akwa United 1-1 El-Kanemi

Kwara United 0-1 Bendel Insurance

Ikorodu City 3-0 Tornadoes

Rangers 0-2 Heartland