Crown FC of Ogbomoso, Warri Wolves have officially joined high-flying Kun Khalifat for the 2025 Nigeria National League (NNL) Super 8 Playoffs, as the Southern Conference prepares for a thrilling finale to the regular season.
Crown FC sealed their spot with a crucial 2-1 away victory over Ijele FC in Matchweek 21. Head coach Ayodeji Ayeni praised his players’ focus and reiterated the club’s ambition of returning to the top-flight Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
“When we started the season, the goal was clear — qualify for the Super 8 and earn promotion. By God’s grace, we are almost there,” Ayeni told reporters after the match in Enugu.
Former Akwa United and Crown FC coach Deji Ayeni. Photo Credit: X
Warri Wolves also confirmed their place in the playoffs after a 4-2 win against Dakkada FC in Delta State.
Wolves now sit atop Conference A with 39 points from 17 matches and remain unbeaten this season, boasting 11 wins and six draws.
In Conference B, high-flying Kun Khalifat FC had already confirmed their qualification, their 1-1 draw with Godswill Akpabio FC ensured they maintain top spot with 37 points, enough to guarantee a playoff ticket with one match to go.
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The race for the last Southern Conference B slot remains wide open. Osun United are currently second with 33 points and need a win against First Bank FC in their final fixture to join the playoff party.
Rovers FC of Calabar, who trail closely with 31 points, must beat Solution FC and hope Osun stumbles.
Relegation Scramble Heats Up in Southern B
At the bottom of Conference B, five teams remain in danger of the drop as the relegation battle intensifies:
- Gateway United (22 pts),
- Godswill Akpabio FC (21 pts),
- Abakaliki FC (20 pts),
- ABS FC (23 pts),
- Madiba FC (23 pts)
With just three points separating 8th and 11th place, the NNL final day promises nail-biting tension.
Gateway United’s hard-fought 2-1 win over Osun United temporarily lifted them above the red zone, but their fate remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Godswill Akpabio FC and Abakaliki FC both secured draws and wins, respectively, keeping their survival hopes alive.
Godswill Akpabio United FC players celebrating (Photo credit: The Athletic Images)
One or more of these clubs could still drop, depending on the final day results. For now, it’s a precarious mix of nerves, calculators, and prayers at the bottom of Conference B.
Week 21 Highlights
The penultimate round of fixtures delivered drama across both conferences:
Beyond Limits FA destroyed Igbajo United 7-0 in Ikenne.
Edel FC and Abakaliki FC kept hopes alive with home wins.
Gateway United edged Osun United to delay playoff celebrations.
Solution FC and Sporting Lagos played out a gripping 3-3 draw.
What’s Next?
The NNL organisers are expected to confirm dates and venues for the Super 8 Playoffs, which will determine the four clubs promoted to the Nigeria Premier Football League for the 2025/26 season.
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With promotion and relegation battles reaching fever pitch, the final day is poised to deliver unforgettable drama across the country.
