NPFL week two summary: ‘Farewell to all home wins’
The second matchday of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) provided an action-packed weekend of football, as several teams delivered standout performances, while others secured vital points on the road. The competitive nature of the league was evident with a number of draws and last-minute drama, ensuring the season remains unpredictable and intriguing.
After two weeks, SportsRation correspondent Nsikakabasi Akpan is convinced the NPFL is ready to bid ‘farewell to all home wins’.
Katsina United vs. Bendel Insurance
At the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina United claimed their first victory of the season with a 2-1 win over Bendel Insurance. The visitors took an early lead through James Orosanye in the 17th minute, but Katsina United quickly responded. Lukman Bello equalized in the 22nd minute, and Azeez Falolu netted the match-winner deep into stoppage time, securing all three points for the home side.
Bayelsa United vs. Kano Pillars
Bayelsa United battled back to earn a 1-1 draw against Kano Pillars at the Samson Siasia Stadium. Auwalu Ali Malam put the visitors ahead just before halftime, but Bayelsa United responded in the second half through Rabiu Abdullahi, who found the back of the net in the 59th minute.
Niger Tornadoes vs. Nasarawa United
In a defensive display, Niger Tornadoes and Nasarawa United played out a goalless draw at the Bako Kotangora Stadium. Both teams had chances but failed to break the deadlock, splitting the points.
Akwa United vs. Abia Warriors
Akwa United rescued a point at home with a dramatic stoppage-time penalty, drawing 1-1 with Abia Warriors. Adejoh Ojonugwa gave Abia Warriors an early lead in the 4th minute, but Akwa United equalized when Edidiong Ezekiel converted a late penalty.
Shooting Stars vs. Plateau United
Shooting Stars and Plateau United also ended their encounter in a 1-1 draw at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan. Victor Dawa gave Plateau United the lead in the 39th minute, but Uche Onwuasoanya leveled for the home team just before the halftime whistle.
Remo Stars vs. Sunshine Stars
Remo Stars maintained their perfect start to the season with a narrow 1-0 victory over Sunshine Stars. Ibrahim Shuaibu’s early goal in the 7th minute was enough to secure all three points for Remo Stars, keeping them top of the table.
Rivers United vs. Heartland
Rivers United put on an impressive performance to beat Heartland 3-1 at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium. Taofeek Otaniyi gave Rivers United an early lead, and after Christian Molokwu equalized for Heartland, substitute Kabir Abdullahi scored twice in the second half to ensure victory for the home side.
Full Matchday Two Results:
- Akwa United 1-1 Abia Warriors
- Bayelsa United 1-1 Kano Pillars
- Katsina United 2-1 Bendel Insurance
- Niger Tornadoes 0-0 Nasarawa United
- Shooting Stars 1-1 Plateau United
- Remo Stars 1-0 Sunshine Stars
- Rivers United 3-1 Heartland
Upcoming Fixtures:
- Ikorodu City vs. Enugu Rangers (Sept. 25)
- Enyimba vs. Lobi Stars (Sept. 25)
Farewell to ALL home wins – Draws Show Teams Can Pick Points Away
Commenting on the numerous draws this matchday, SportsRation correspondent Nsikakabasi Akpan noted the implications for the season ahead. “The high number of draws we’ve seen shows that teams are becoming more resilient on the road. It means picking points away from home is no longer a rare occurrence. This will make the NPFL season ahead interesting and unpredictable, as teams now have the ability to grind out results regardless of venue.”
The ability of teams to secure points away from home indicates that there is no clear dominance from any one club so far, adding a level of excitement for fans as they anticipate more tight contests in the coming weeks.
As the NPFL progresses, it will be fascinating to see if this trend continues and how it affects the race for the title and relegation battle.
