Enugu Rangers, former Nigeria Premier League (NPFL) champions, delivered a powerful performance on Sunday. They secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Bayelsa United at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium. This win was a major highlight of NPFL Matchday 16.
In another exciting fixture, Victor Mbaoma proved instrumental for Remo Stars. He scored two crucial goals. This led his team to a 2-1 win against his former club, Enyimba. These results significantly impacted the league table.
Rangers Dominate Bayelsa United in Enugu
The Flying Antelopes started on the front foot. Chidozie Iwundu broke the deadlock after just ten minutes. He then doubled his tally seven minutes later, leaving Bayelsa’s defence in disarray. Kenechukwu Agu added a third goal before halftime, completing a clever team move.
Chimobi Igwilo scored the fourth goal for Rangers, sealing their commanding performance. Issah Yusuf netted a consolation goal for Bayelsa United midway through the first half. Enugu Rangers now sit in fourth place on the NPFL table. They have accumulated 25 points from 16 matches.
Mbaoma Haunts Former Club Enyimba
In Abeokuta, Victor Mbaoma showcased his scoring prowess against his former team, Enyimba. He connected with a low cross from Chigozie Chilekwu in the third minute. This gave Remo Stars a dream start. Enyimba quickly responded.
They levelled the score in the 32nd minute. Edidiong finished strongly after a good run by Chidera down the wing. Mbaoma, however, struck again just before the break. He headed a well-placed free kick from Haruna Hadi into the net. This made the score 2-1.
Enyimba pressed hard for an equalizer in the second half. Despite their efforts, they could not find a way through. Mbaoma was substituted late in the game. He received a deserved standing ovation from the home crowd as Adam Goita replaced him.
Other NPFL Matchday 16 Results
Across the league, Kwara United secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes. Bright Babatunde scored in the 15th minute. An own goal later widened their lead. Kano Pillars claimed a tight 2-1 win against Kun Khalifat. Rabiu Ali scored twice, including a penalty.
Plateau United edged Warri Wolves with a 1-0 win. An own goal decided the match. Vincent Temitope and Gift David both received red cards in the 86th minute. Abia Warriors held Rivers United to a 1-1 draw. Suraju Lawal scored a late equalizer deep into added time.
Wikki Tourists frustrated league leaders Ikorodu City. Their match ended in a goalless draw. El-Kanemi Warriors and Barau also played out a scoreless draw, sharing the points.
Updated NPFL League Standings
Following Matchday 16, Ikorodu City maintains its top position with 28 points. Nasarawa United and Rivers United are close behind, each on 27 points. Remo Stars have moved up to ninth place with 22 points. Bayelsa United currently sits 14th with 20 points. Enugu Rangers are in a strong fourth position with 25 points.
Upcoming Fixtures
Matchday 16 concludes today with two pending games. Katsina United will play Bendel Insurance. Nasarawa United is set to face Shooting Stars. Both matches kick off at 4 p.m.
Rivers United also has two outstanding fixtures to complete. They will begin with a game against Plateau United on Wednesday. Following that, they travel to Kano to face Barau on December 18.
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