9ja Flavour Nigeria Professional Football League

Intense NPFL matchday 18 battles set to steal spotlight amidst AFCON fever

Caretaker January 12, 2024

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Week 14 Unravels Exciting Encounters in Nigeria Premier Football League Various Venues - Date In an action-packed Week 14 of the Nigeria Premier Football League, football enthusiasts witnessed thrilling matches that showcased both skill and determination among the participating teams. At the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano Pillars secured a noteworthy 2-1 victory against league leaders Remo Stars. Ibrahim Mustapha broke the deadlock five minutes into the second half, but Remo Stars fought back, with Dayo Ojo leveling the score in the 72nd minute. However, veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali sealed the deal with the winning goal six minutes later. Despite the defeat, Remo Stars maintained their top position on the league table. Lobi Stars emerged victorious at the Lafia City Stadium, defeating Doma United 2-1. Solomon Oganbor and Suleiman Mojereola were the goal scorers for Lobi Stars, handing Doma United their first defeat in nine league outings. Former champions Plateau United showcased dominance at the New Jos Stadium by thrashing Bayelsa United 5-1. Albert Hilary's hat-trick, coupled with goals from Silas Nenrot and Izuchukwu Chimezie, secured the resounding victory. Ekeson Okorie netted Bayelsa United's sole goal. Heartland secured a narrow 1-0 win against Akwa United at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri. Chidiebere Ajoku's late first-half goal proved to be the difference. In Awka, Rangers claimed a 2-0 victory against Sporting Lagos, with Austin Onyemaechi and Kenechukwu Agu finding the back of the net for the Flying Antelopes. Kwara United and Niger Tornadoes battled to a goalless draw in Ilorin, ensuring a share of points for both teams. Full Results: Abia Warriors 3-2 Shooting Stars Rangers International 2-0 Sporting Lagos Heartland 1-0 Akwa United Kwara United 0-0 Niger Tornadoes Lobi Stars 2-1 Doma United Plateau United 5-1 Bayelsa United Sunshine Stars 1-1 Gombe United

While the African Cup of Nations takes center stage this weekend, the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) promises a captivating array of matches on Saturday and Monday, with a pause on Sunday to honor the Super Eagles’ game against Equatorial Guinea.

The spotlight fixture of the week takes place in Jos as Plateau United FC faces the reigning champions, Enyimba International.

At the New Jos Stadium on Saturday, January 13, 2024, all eyes will be on Albert Hilary, who has netted 9 goals this season and played a crucial role in Plateau United’s recent triumph over Rivers United FC.

Enyimba, missing key player Chijioke Mbaoma due to injury, faces a challenging task, but midfielder George Owen remains optimistic, stating, “It will be difficult but not impossible.”

READ ALSO: Nigerian champions Enyimba FC fly to Jos for Plateau United clash

Other NPFL matchups include:

Heartland FC vs Kwara United (Saturday): Heartland seeks to build on their recent home win against Remo Stars, while Kwara United aims for redemption following a home defeat to Lobi Stars.
Sunshine Stars vs Niger Tornadoes (Saturday): After a 2-0 defeat to Remo Stars, Sunshine Stars look to bounce back at the Akure Township Stadium, with Coach Edith Agoye eager to reignite the spark in Michael Olalusi and Moses Omodumueke.
Rangers vs Gombe United (Saturday): Rangers eye a return to winning ways against Gombe United at the Cathedral after a loss to Bendel Insurance, while Gombe United seeks to capitalize on their draw against Rivers United.
Bayelsa United vs Bendel Insurance (Monday): Bayelsa United faces Bendel Insurance without talisman Robert Mizo, who secured a deal with Libya’s Ahli Benghazi. Bendel Insurance looks to approach the game positively.
Sporting Lagos vs Shooting Stars (Monday): Sporting Lagos targets a win against struggling Shooting Stars, aiming to avoid slipping into the relegation battle.
Lobi Stars vs Kano Pillars (Monday): Lobi Stars, coming off an away win against Kwara United, hosts Kano Pillars in Lafia. Despite playing away from their original home, Lobi Stars remains a formidable force in Lafia..