NPFL Roundup: Shooting Stars Upset El-Kanemi, Rangers Edge Enyimba In Derby

NPFL Roundup: Shooting Stars Upset El-Kanemi, Rangers Edge Enyimba In Derby 

Sampson Adedeji

One of the biggest upsets of Matchday 35 in the Nigeria Premier Football League saw Shooting Stars SC secure a dramatic 2-1 away victory over El Kanemi Warriors in Maiduguri, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The home side took the lead in the 25th minute through John Zakka, but the Oluyole Warriors responded immediately after the restart. 

Qamar Adegoke equalised in the 46th minute before completing his brace with the decisive goal in the 86th minute to seal a memorable win on the road.

In Umuahia, Abia Warriors FC edged Ikorodu City FC 2-1. 

Paul Samson opened the scoring in the 20th minute, while Valentine Ugwu added a second just before halftime. Aderemi Adeoye had earlier pulled one back for the visitors in the 35th minute.

Last season champions, Remo Stars FC continued their impressive form with a commanding 3-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes FC. 

Victor Mbaoma struck early in the 10th minute, Olamilekan Adedayo doubled the lead in first-half stoppage time, and Samuel Anakwe wrapped up the win in the 78th minute.

At Ilorin, Kwara United FC recorded a 2-1 win against Barau FC. 

Toheeb Gidado put the hosts ahead in the 15th minute, while Saheed Olaniyi converted a penalty just before the break. Joseph Atule reduced the deficit for the visitors in the 66th minute.

In Enugu, Rangers International FC came from behind to defeat Enyimba FC 2-1 in a highly anticipated Oriental derby. 

Wonah Williams gave Enyimba the lead in the 49th minute, but second-half goals from Chidozie Iwundu (61’) and Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (68’) completed the turnaround for the Flying Antelopes.

Elsewhere, Nasarawa United FC cruised to a 3-0 win over Warri Wolves FC, with Victor Chimezie opening the scoring from the penalty spot in the 43rd minute. Ngei Oluka-Efor and Habibu Alakija added further goals in the second half.

In Kano, Kano Pillars FC left it late to edge Rivers United FC 2-1. Abdullahi Musa broke the deadlock in the 81st minute, before Handsome Surveyor equalised for Rivers United in the 89th minute. 

However, veteran forward Ahmed Musa netted deep into stoppage time to secure all three points for the hosts.

Matchday 35 delivered drama across centres, with crucial results shaping the title race and battle for survival as the NPFL season edges closer to its conclusion.