Ikorodu City now leads the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). They reached the top spot for the first time this season. This followed their impressive 2-1 victory over Plateau United. The match took place at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Sunday.
The first half saw both teams evenly matched. However, Ikorodu City found their rhythm after the break. Joseph Arumala scored the opener in the 47th minute. He expertly guided Folarin Temitope’s free-kick into the net.
This goal shifted the game’s momentum towards Ikorodu City. Seven minutes later, their lead doubled. Substitute Alade Balogun poked in the second goal.
Plateau United reduced the deficit late on. Wisdom Ndon found the net for them. Despite this, Ikorodu City remained calm. They successfully defended their lead until the final whistle.
This win continues Ikorodu City’s strong performance. They have secured four victories in their last five NPFL games. Other results also favored the Lagos club. Nasarawa United dropped points in Owerri, drawing 1-1 with Kun Khalifat FC. Abia Warriors also faced a defeat. They lost 2-1 to Bayelsa United in Yenagoa.
Rivers United capitalized on these results. They climbed to second place after a 2-1 home win. Their opponents were Warri Wolves. Adebambo Ademola shocked the home fans, scoring in the 25th minute. Emmanuel Nnaji quickly equalized five minutes later. Samson Obi sealed the comeback midway through the second half. This loss marked Warri Wolves’ second consecutive defeat.
Pressure is mounting on Enyimba coach Stanley Eguma. His team suffered another disappointing home loss. Wikki Tourists secured a 1-0 victory in Aba. This was Enyimba’s fourth defeat of the season. It was also their second loss at home.
Eguma received a two-game ultimatum earlier this month. His team managed a win against Kano Pillars. They also drew goalless with Abia Warriors. However, this recent loss adds to his troubles.
The bottom four teams in the league table remain the same. Bendel Insurance and Kun Khalifat are tied with 12 points each. Barau FC has 10 points. Former champions Kano Pillars struggle at the very bottom. They currently have just six points.
NPFL Matchday 13 Full Results
Here are the complete results from Matchday 13 of the Nigeria Premier Football League:
- Bendel Insurance 3-2 Kano Pillars
- El-Kanemi Warriors 2-0 Kwara United
- Ikorodu City 2-1 Plateau United
- Shooting Stars vs Remo Stars (Postponed)
- Kun Khalifat FC 1-1 Nasarawa United
- Niger Tornadoes 2-0 Katsina United
- Rivers United 2-1 Warri Wolves
- Bayelsa United 2-1 Abia Warriors
- Enyimba 0-1 Wikki Tourists
- Barau FC vs Enugu Rangers (Match to be played later)