Charles Atshimene scored a brace to take his tally for the season to 6 as Akwa United defeated Dakkada FC 2-0 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium to keep them on top of the NPFL standings at the end of Matchday 21. Atshimene has scored 3 goals in two appearances for the Promise Keepers since leading marksman Ndifreke Effiong left the club. Akwa United are unbeaten in their last 11 NPFL matches, a run that stretches back to February.
Ahmed Musa made a winning return to the NPFL with Kano Pillars as the Super Eagles skipper created the goal in Kano Pillars’ 1-0 win over Adamawa United. Musa was handed the captain’s armband by club captain, Rabiu Ali just before kickoff, and he returned the favour by laying off an inch-perfect through ball which Ali finished emphatically for his 8th league goal of the season in the 82nd minute to make amends for an earlier penalty miss.
Nasarawa United picked up a 2-1 win away to Wikki Tourists in Bauchi as the Solid Miners completed the double over Wikki Tourists. Manu Garba struck in the 22nd minute to give the home side the lead, but Anas Yusuf followed up on his stunning effort from last week with another goal in the 33rd minute to level matters. Silas Nwankwo scored his 9th goal this season in the 46th minute as Nasarawa United overcame Wikki Tourists.
Rivers United defeated Rangers International 1-0 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu to pick up a rare away win. Godwin Aguda was left with the easiest of tap-ins in the 8th minute after a bit of pinball in the box. The forward has scored 5 times in the league this season and this goal in particular was important as it gave the Pride of Rivers bragging rights as they completed the double over Rangers.
MFM FC picked up an important 2-0 win at the Ozoro Poly Stadium in Delta over Warri Wolves in the NPFL. Onyebuchi Ifeanyi opened the scoring with a 24th minute header before Clement Ogwu scored from distance in the 40th minute. The win further moves Lagos-based MFM away from the relegation zone.
Heartland picked up a 2-0 win at home to Katsina United, avenging their 3-2 first leg defeat. Bright Onyedikachi opened the scoring in the 14th minute before Kelechi Chimezie scored a 26th minute goal that eventually sealed the result.
Kwara United defeated Plateau United 2-0 at the Kwara State Sports Complex to remain in third place, one point behind Kano Pillars and Akwa United. Jide Fatokun opened the scoring for the Afonja Warriors before Stephen Jude added a second after 80 minutes.
Lobi Stars defeated visiting FC Ifeanyi Ubah 2-0 at the Aper Aku Stadium. Ossy Martins scored in the 37th minute to give his side the lead before Monday Akile doubled their advantage in the second half. The Anambra Warriors continue with their miserable season as they are deeply involved in the relegation scrap.
Sunshine Stars and Jigawa Golden Stars played out a goalless draw at the Ondo State Sports Complex, stretching the home side’s winless run to 14 matches in the NPFL.
