NPFL Matchday 14: Abia Warriors, Akwa United, and Bayelsa United Shine in Wednesday’s Fixtures
The 14th matchday of the 2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season featured a thrilling set of matches across the country.
As teams battled for vital points, there were key victories for Abia Warriors, Akwa United, and Bayelsa United, while other teams settled for draws or had their fixtures postponed.
Abia Warriors 2-0 Katsina United
In Umuahia, Abia Warriors delivered a commanding performance, defeating Katsina United 2-0. The Warriors controlled the game from start to finish, securing all three points thanks to goals from their attacking line, while Katsina United struggled to break through defensively.
Akwa United 1-0 Plateau United
In Uyo, Akwa United narrowly edged out Plateau United with a 1-0 victory. The match was tightly contested, but Akwa’s resilience and a second-half strike by Friday Apollos made the difference, ensuring they moved up the table with the crucial win.
Bayelsa United 4-1 Niger Tornadoes
Bayelsa United put on an offensive show in Yenagoa, hammering Niger Tornadoes 4-1. Bayelsa’s high-pressure attack overwhelmed the Tornadoes, with a clinical display of finishing that saw them bag four goals and secure a commanding win.
Ikorodu City 2-0 El Kanemi
Ikorodu City continued their solid revival this season with a comfortable 2-0 win over El Kanemi. The home team’s defensive strength and efficient attack saw them claim three points, while El Kanemi failed to convert their chances.
Kwara United 1-0 Heartland
In Ilorin, Kwara United held firm at home, securing a 1-0 win over Heartland. The solitary goal was enough to clinch the win, leaving Heartland to reflect on missed opportunities as they struggled to find the equalizer.
Nasarawa United 2-1 Bendel Insurance
Nasarawa United edged out Bendel Insurance 2-1 in a hard-fought encounter. The hosts displayed grit and determination, overcoming a resilient Bendel side, with the match winning goal coming in the second half.
Rangers International 3-0 Lobi Stars
Rangers International put on a dominant performance at home, thumping Lobi Stars 3-0. The Flying Antelopes took control early and never looked back, with their attacking prowess proving too much for Lobi Stars to handle.
Remo Stars 2-0 Shooting Stars
Remo Stars also made a statement with a convincing 2-0 win over Shooting Stars. The home side showcased their strength, securing three valuable points to stay among the league’s top teams.
Sunshine Stars 1-1 Rivers United
In Akure, Sunshine Stars played out a 1-1 draw with Rivers United. The two sides shared the spoils in a hard-fought encounter that saw each team score a goal, leaving both to settle for a point.
Postponed: Kano Pillars vs Enyimba
The highly anticipated clash between Kano Pillars and Enyimba was postponed, leaving fans eager for a rescheduled date to see these two powerhouses face off.
Standings Update:
With the results from Wednesday, Remo Stars and Rivers United remain locked at the top of the table with 26 points each, though Remo Stars lead on goal difference. Rangers International follow in third, while Akwa United and Bayelsa United continue to push for higher positions in the table.
At the bottom, Bendel Insurance remains in 20th place with just 12 points, while Lobi Stars and Nasarawa United hover just above them.
Matchday 14 Summary:
- Abia Warriors 2-0 Katsina United
- Akwa United 1-0 Plateau United
- Bayelsa United 4-1 Niger Tornadoes
- Ikorodu City 2-0 El Kanemi
- Kwara United 1-0 Heartland
- Nasarawa United 2-1 Bendel Insurance
- Rangers International 3-0 Lobi Stars
- Remo Stars 2-0 Shooting Stars
- Sunshine Stars 1-1 Rivers United
- Postponed: Kano Pillars vs Enyimba