NPFL Relegation Confirmed For Bayelsa United And Wikki Tourists

NPFL Relegation Confirmed For Bayelsa United And Wikki Tourists

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria Premier Football League clubs Bayelsa United and Wikki Tourist have been relegated from the top flight following defeats in their Matchday 37 fixtures, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Bayelsa United suffered a 2-1 loss to Remo Stars in Ikenne, while Wikki Tourist fell 3-2 at home to Rivers United after conceding two late goals.

Bayelsa United made a bright start against Remo Stars, taking the lead in the fifth minute through Ofem Nneoyi. The forward capitalised on a defensive error and Remo Stars’ high line before calmly finishing past the goalkeeper.

The hosts responded strongly and restored parity four minutes before halftime when Alex Oyowah headed home from a free-kick delivery.

Remo Stars completed the comeback in the 64th minute through experienced striker Victor Mbaoma, who swept the ball into the net for his 13th league goal of the season.

The defeat leaves Bayelsa United on 40 points, six adrift of safety with one game remaining, confirming the end of the Yenagoa club’s four-year stay in the NPFL.

Wikki Tourist’s relegation was also confirmed despite taking the lead early in the second half through Imanu Bala. However, Rivers United mounted a late comeback to claim all three points and send the Bauchi-based side back to the Nigeria National League after only one season in the top division.

The victory also kept Rivers United’s title hopes alive. Coached by George Finidi, the Port Harcourt club remain one point behind league leaders Enugu Rangers, who secured a 2-1 win over Bendel Insurance at the Cathedral Stadium.

With one round of fixtures remaining, the NPFL title race will now be decided on the final day of the season.

At the bottom of the table, Bayelsa United and Wikki Tourist remain on 40 points, while clubs including Abia Warriors, Kwara United, Enyimba FC, Warri Wolves, Remo Stars, Kun Khalifat and Niger Tornadoes have moved clear of the relegation zone.

Matchday 37 Results

Shooting Stars 1-0 Barau FC

El-Kanemi Warriors 0-0 Niger Tornadoes

Kwara United 2-0 Enyimba FC

Remo Stars 2-1 Bayelsa United

Enugu Rangers 2-1 Bendel Insurance

Katsina United 4-1 Ikorodu City

Wikki Tourist 2-3 Rivers United

Abia Warriors 0-2 Kun Khalifat

Kano Pillars 1-0 Warri Wolves

Nasarawa United 1-0 Plateau United