NPFL Matchday 35: Shooting Stars Shock El Kanemi as Title Race Heats Up
Matchday 35 of the Nigeria Premier Football League delivered drama, late goals and a major upset as the race for the title and survival intensified across the country.
The biggest surprise came in Maiduguri, where Shooting Stars SC stunned El Kanemi Warriors with a 2-1 away victory. The hosts had taken the lead in the 25th minute through John Zakka, but the visitors responded immediately after the break. Qamar Adegoke levelled in the 46th minute and struck again in the 86th minute to complete a fine comeback and seal all three points.
In Umuahia, Abia Warriors FC secured a narrow 2-1 win over Ikorodu City FC. Paul Samson opened the scoring in the 20th minute, while Valentine Ugwu doubled the lead just before half-time. Aderemi Adeoye had earlier reduced the deficit for the visitors in the 35th minute.
Defending champions Remo Stars FC continued their strong form with a convincing 3-0 victory against Niger Tornadoes FC. Victor Mbaoma gave them an early lead in the 10th minute, Olamilekan Adedayo added a second in first-half stoppage time, and Samuel Anakwe sealed the win in the 78th minute.
At Ilorin, Kwara United FC defeated Barau FC 2-1. Toheeb Gidado scored in the 15th minute, while Saheed Olaniyi converted a penalty before the break. Joseph Atule pulled one back for the visitors in the 66th minute.
The Oriental derby in Enugu lived up to expectations as Rangers International FC came from behind to beat Enyimba FC 2-1. Wonah Williams had put Enyimba ahead early in the second half, but goals from Chidozie Iwundu in the 61st minute and Ifeanyi Onyebuchi seven minutes later completed a spirited turnaround for the Flying Antelopes.
Elsewhere, Nasarawa United FC recorded a comfortable 3-0 win over Warri Wolves FC. Victor Chimezie opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 43rd minute, before Ngei Oluka-Efor and Habibu Alakija added further goals after the break.
In Kano, Kano Pillars FC left it late to edge Rivers United FC 2-1 in a thrilling finish. Abdullahi Musa broke the deadlock in the 81st minute, but Rivers United responded through Handsome Surveyor in the 89th minute. Veteran forward Ahmed Musa then struck deep into stoppage time to hand the hosts a dramatic victory.
With just a few matches left, Matchday 35 results have tightened the title race and increased pressure on teams battling relegation, setting up a tense finish to the NPFL season.
