Matchday 16 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) delivered exciting clashes. Enugu Rangers secured a dominant 4-1 victory. They defeated Bayelsa United at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium. Meanwhile, Remo Stars edged out Enyimba with a 2-1 win. These results shaped the league standings across various venues.
Enugu Rangers Dominate Bayelsa United in Thrilling Encounter
Former champions Enugu Rangers started strong. They were on the front foot from the whistle. Chidozie Iwundu opened scoring after ten minutes. He quickly added a second goal seven minutes later. Iwundu showcased brilliant individual skill. Kenechukwu Agu scored the third before halftime. He swept the ball into the net after a clever team move. Chimobi Igwilo made it four, rounding off a superb performance. Issah Yusuf netted a consolation for Bayelsa midway through the first half. Rangers now sit fourth in the NPFL table. They have accumulated 25 points from 16 games.
Victor Mbaoma Powers Remo Stars Past Enyimba
In Abeokuta, Victor Mbaoma was the hero for Remo Stars. He reminded his former club, Enyimba, of his prowess. Mbaoma scored in the third minute. He met a low cross from Chigozie Chilekwu. He expertly guided the ball past the goalkeeper. Enyimba responded quickly. They levelled the match in the 32nd minute. Edidiong finished off a strong run from Chidera down the wing. Just before halftime, Mbaoma struck again. He made it 2-1 for Remo Stars. A well-placed free kick from Haruna Hadi led to his header. Enyimba pushed hard for an equalizer in the second half. However, they could not find a second goal. Mbaoma received a standing ovation upon substitution late in the game. Adam Goita replaced him.
Other NPFL Matchday 16 Results
- Kwara United earned a 2-0 home win over Niger Tornadoes. Bright Babatunde scored early. An own goal widened the gap, sealing their victory.
- Kano Pillars defeated Kun Khalifat FC 2-1. Rabiu Ali netted both goals, including a penalty.
- Plateau United secured a narrow 1-0 win against Warri Wolves. An own goal decided the match. Both Vincent Temitope and Gift David received red cards late on (86th minute).
- Abia Warriors held Rivers United to a 1-1 draw. Suraju Lawal scored a late equalizer deep into added time for Abia Warriors.
- Wikki Tourist played a goalless draw with league leaders Ikorodu City.
- El-Kanemi Warriors also drew 0-0 with Barau.
Updated NPFL Standings
Following these results, Ikorodu City remain at the top. They lead the league with 28 points. Nasarawa United and Rivers United are close behind. Both teams have 27 points. Remo Stars climbed to ninth place with 22 points. Bayelsa United dropped to 14th position with 20 points. Enugu Rangers are now firmly in fourth place, holding 25 points from their 16 matches.
Upcoming and Outstanding Fixtures
Matchday 16 concluded with two more games on Monday, December 8 (4 p.m.). Katsina United played Bendel Insurance. Nasarawa United also faced Shooting Stars. Rivers United have two outstanding fixtures scheduled. They will first play Plateau United on Wednesday. Following that, they travel to Kano to face Barau on December 18.
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