NPFL23 Matchday Three: Bendel Insurance, Akwa United, Lobi Stars win away

Bendel Insurance claimed a third straight win after defeating Kwara United 1-0 in their NPFL23 Matchday Three clash. The Benin Arsenal claimed the win in the Afonja Warriors’ adopted home of Ibadan thanks to a third goal of the season from forward Imade Osarenkhoe. The forward stooped low to glance a header past Adewale Adeyinka in the 21st minute of the encounter.

Akwa United destroyed Nasarawa United in their NPFL23 Matchday Three clash in Jos, claiming a 3-0 win away from home. Left-back James Ajako opened the scoring for the Promise Keepers after 43 minutes before Ndifreke Effiong announced his return to the league with a brace in the second half, the second of which was a brilliant finish following a solo run from deep. The Solid Miners have now lost three times this season following previous defeats to Enyimba and ElKanemi Warriors.

Lobi Stars handed Abia Warriors a first defeat of the season after a 1-0 win over the Umuahia Landlords at the Umuahia Township Stadium. Joseph Atule set up homegrown star Kumanga Suur in the 56th minute to score his first goal for the club.

Plateau United defeated nine-man Enyimba 2-1 at the New Jos Stadium to bounce back following their defeat last time out. Enyimba went in front after Chibuike Nwaiwu headed them in front after 25 minutes before the Peace Boys equalised with a header of their own in the 36th minute, with defender Ifeanyi Emmanuel scoring his third of the season. Substitute Kazeem Ogunleye scored the winner for the home side in added time, with Enyimba duo Olorunleke Ojo and Eze Ekwutoziam getting sent off in the aftermath.

Sunshine Stars escaped with one point from Awka in their NPFL23 Matchday Three clash against Rangers as the match ended 1-1. The home side went in front when Ikemdinachi Imo scored an own goal after 14 minutes. Ibrahim Yusuf equalised for Sunshine Stars with his second goal of the season after 36 minutes. The visitors had their goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal to thank for their point as he saved a 90th-minute penalty.

Doma United picked up their first NPFL win in their history as they defeated Dakkada 1-0 at the Pantami Stadium in Gombe. The Savannah Tigers won the NPFL23 Matchday Three clash thanks to a second half effort from Emmanuel Ogwuche.

ElKanemi Warriors played out a goalless draw at home to Gombe United in their NPFL23 Matchday Three derby clash, with both sides picking up a point following their respective Matchday Two defeats.

Bayelsa United claimed an impressive win over Wikki Tourist at the Sampson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa. The newly-promoted side went in front through Mizo Robert’s second goal of the season after 42 minutes before Israel Consul added a second in the 70th minute. Prince John scored a late consolation for Wikki from the penalty spot.