Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-04-17 02:09:48
Sporting Lagos emerged victorious against Sunshine Stars yesterday, while Enugu Rangers defeated Abia Warriors in a thrilling five-goal match in week 30 of the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL). The match between Enugu Rangers and Abia Warriors at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium was a hard-fought battle, with both teams determined to secure a favorable result. Isaac Saviour scored the opening goal for the Flying Antelopes in the seventh minute, but Adejoh Ojenugwa equalized for Abia Warriors with a strike in added time of the first half.
The second half saw Kazeem Ogunleye restore Rangers’ lead just three minutes in, and he added another goal in the 63rd minute, putting them in the lead. However, Abia Warriors continued to put up a fight and managed to reduce the deficit with a goal from Pascal Nwabueze in added time. Despite their efforts, Rangers held on to secure the win and maintain their position at the top of the league table. Enyimba also secured a victory, defeating Heartland of Owerri 1-0 with a goal from Ebere Kennedy Awazie in the 39th minute.
In other matches, Rivers United defeated Plateau United 3-1, Kwara United won against Gombe United with a score of 2-1, Bendel Insurance secured a 2-1 victory against Kano Pillars, and Bayelsa United drew 1-1 with Katsina United. Akwa United had a dominant performance, beating Niger Tornadoes 4-1, while Sporting Lagos narrowly defeated Sunshine Stars 1-0 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan. The final match of matchday 30 will be played today between Doma United and Remo Stars in Gombe.
Enugu Rangers, Enyimba, and Akwa United’s victories have had significant implications on the league table standings, with Enugu Rangers maintaining their lead, Enyimba climbing to the second position, and Akwa United also making gains. The competitive nature of the NPFL matches has kept fans on the edge of their seats, with unexpected results and intense battles on the field. With the season approaching its climax, the race for the league title and continental competition spots is heating up, making each match more crucial than ever.
Overall, it was an exciting week 30 in the NPFL, with thrilling matches and standout performances from various teams. The competition remains fierce as teams jostle for position and strive to secure valuable points in the league. The upcoming matches promise to be just as action-packed, with teams fighting tooth and nail for success on the pitch.
 table toppers had to dig deep to overcome the Abia Warriors, who were determined to leave Enugu with at least a point.){kind=link}