The Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) is currently experiencing a critical phase as teams vie for redemption, glory, and continental qualification, while others aim to avoid relegation back to the Nigeria National League (NNL).
Week 28 was marked by drama, narrow victories, and draws. Statistically, it recorded the third-fewest goals of the season, yet there were distinct winners and losers. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the matchday events.
NPFL Results
NPFL Week 28 Round-Up
Friday Matches:
Katsina United narrowly defeated Shooting Stars 1-0, leaving the visitors empty-handed.
Saturday Highlights:
Rivers United secured a tight 1-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes, closing the gap to Remo Stars to eight points with ten matches left in the season.
Bendel Insurance clinched a crucial 2-1 win against league leaders Remo Stars, reigniting their hopes for a top-five finish.
Lobi Stars, playing at Rangers International’s home ground in Enugu, suffered a surprising 0-1 loss to debutants Ikorodu City, who moved up to third place, just two points behind Rivers United.
Sunday Action:
Plateau United edged past Abia Warriors with a 1-0 win, bolstering their chances of avoiding relegation while hindering Abia Warriors’ continental aspirations.
Rangers International and Akwa United played to a 1-1 draw, which was vital for Akwa United’s relegation battle.
Enyimba managed a narrow 1-0 victory over El Kanemi Warriors at the Aba International Stadium, alleviating recent poor performances.
Nasarawa United and Sunshine Stars ended in a 1-1 draw; this result negatively impacted Nasarawa FC’s survival plans but was beneficial for Sunshine Stars in their relegation fight.
Kwara United showcased their strength with a 2-0 win against Kano Pillars in Ilorin. Despite the loss, Pillars remain fifth in the standings and still aspire for continental qualification.
Heartland and Bayelsa United shared points in a 1-1 draw at Owerri Township Stadium, keeping both teams just above the relegation zone with equal points of 33.
Top Scorers
As of Week 28, the leading scorers are:
Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United) – 14 goals
Rabiu Ali (Kano Pillars) – 11 goals
Shola Adelani (Ikorodu United) – 9 goals
Ossy Martins (Lobi Stars) – 8 goals
Sunday Megwo (Abia Warriors) – 8 goals
February Awards
League Bloggers Player of the Month Nominees:
The nominees for February’s League Bloggers Award for exceptional performances include:
Kingsley Maduoforo (Rangers International)
Sikiru Alimo (Remo Stars)
Bello Lukman (Katsina United)
Kayode Dike (Bendel Insurance)
Antoine Ijoma Desouza (Abia Warriors)
Ubong Friday (Rivers United)
February Coach of the Month Nominees:
Nominees for February’s Coach of the Month include:
Imama Amapakabo (Abia Warriors)
Fidelis Ilechukwu (Rangers International)
Gregory Ikhenoba
Daniel Ogunmode
Additional Insights
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle attended the match between Rivers United and Nasarawa United, which ended in favor of Rivers. He praised the NPFL and encouraged players to demonstrate commitment and consistency to open doors for national team selection.
MatchDayTalk Verdict
The NPFL has shown significant improvement in quality and officiating, with teams increasingly hopeful of securing points away from home. The presence of the Super Eagles coach at NPFL matches reflects his commitment to local league players. While challenges remain, there is optimism on the horizon.
