Rangers International endured a disappointing evening at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, suffering their fourth home defeat of the 2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season after a 1-0 loss to Plateau United.
Meanwhile, Remo Stars continued their charge towards a historic NPFL title with a dominant win over Enyimba, while Akwa United climbed out of the relegation zone with a crucial victory against Niger Tornadoes.
The reigning champions, Rangers International, struggled to break down their determined opponents, and their continental aspirations took a severe hit. The game’s decisive moment arrived in the 73rd minute when Efim lost his footing, allowing Mancha space to cross for Mojereola finish off for Mangut Mbwa’s boys.
Rangers pushed for an equalizer, and in the 80th minute, Evans forced a superb save from Plateau United goalkeeper Amah. The hosts had two golden chances late on, but substitute Michael Uchebo squandered both—his headed efforts in the 85th and 89th minutes from Saviour Isaac’s set-piece deliveries failed to hit the target.
Daniel Onyia also saw his powerful header denied by a reflex save from the goalkeeper. Rangers’ hopes of securing a continental spot suffered a major setback, as they now sit in fifth place with 45 points.
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Meanwhile, Abia Warriors, who secured a crucial win, have consolidated their hold on third place with 50 points. For Plateau United, the victory was a morale booster as they climbed to 11th place with 41 points, easing their relegation fears.
Akwa United Climb Out of Relegation Zone with Crucial Win
In Uyo, Akwa United secured a vital 2-0 victory against Niger Tornadoes to move out of the relegation zone. An own goal by Felix Oloye in the 44th minute put Akwa United ahead before Abson Mare doubled the advantage in the 69th minute.
The promise keepers look rejuvenated in their last 5 NPFL games. ( Photo Credit NPFL)
Kennedy Boboye’s men are now in 16th place with 37 points, having won their last three matches and remaining unbeaten in their last four NPFL fixtures.
Remo Stars Edge Closer to Historic NPFL Title
Remo Stars continued their remarkable campaign with a statement victory over record NPFL champions Enyimba. The league leaders secured a 2-0 win, with Olamilekan Adedayo opening the scoring in the 28th minute before substitute Olasupo came off the bench to double the lead in the 67th minute.
Adebayo celebrating his goal for Remo stars . (Photo Credit X)
This victory extended Enyimba’s winless streak against Remo Stars to eight matches (D3 L5) and solidified Remo Stars’ push for their first-ever NPFL title.
Remo stars hope to dethrone Rangers who won the NPFL last season, the sky blues are top with 60 points with an outstanding game and 8 points ahead of 2nd place Rivers United who lost yesterday to Bayelsa United.
El-Kanemi Warriors Stage Late Fightback in Maiduguri
In Maiduguri, Aliyu Zubairu’s El-Kanemi Warriors showcased resilience, fighting back from two goals down to snatch a crucial point against Shooting Stars. Monday Gideon had put 3SC ahead in the 35th minute before Sadiq Ibrahim doubled the lead in added time of the first half.
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However, El-Kanemi refused to concede defeat and mounted a spirited comeback to secure a valuable draw. 3sc stay 4th place with 47 points chasing continental places while El-Kanemi are 13th place with 41 points.
