Finidi George title challenge with Rivers United took a major hit after a disappointing 1-0 loss to Bayelsa United in the South-South Derby in Yenagoa in Nigeria Premier football League (NPFL) match day 31.
Kehinde Malik’s 19th-minute goal was enough to seal the win for Ladan Bosso’s men leaving Rivers United stuck in second place with 52 points and seemingly out of the title race.
The prosperity boys move to 11th position with 41 points as the hope to keep their place in the elite division.
Former Super Eagles Coach Findi George has been leading the Rivers United charge for a 2nd NPFL title. (Photo Credit X)
Meanwhile, Abia Warriors continued their impressive charge toward continental football, securing a 2-0 win over Lobi Stars in Umuahia.
Sunday Megwo struck in the 24th minute, with Antoine Ijoma adding a late goal in stoppage time to seal all three points.
The victory keeps Warriors in third place with 50 points, just two points behind Rivers United, as they close in on a potential CAF Confederation Cup spot.
League leaders Remo Stars still in control with 57 points and two games in hand, including a crucial clash against Enyimba tomorrow in Ikenne, the title race is slipping away from Rivers United as Abia Warriors keep up the pressure.
Abia Warriors Keep Dream Alive, Lobi Stars in Deep Trouble
Under Coach Imama Amapakabo, Abia Warriors have found their rhythm at the right time.
READ MORE:caf-in-turmoil-as-ivory-coast-pulls-out-of-u20-afcon-hosting-heres-why
Megwo’s 10th goal of the season set them on their way, while Ijoma’s eighth goal in stoppage time ensured a comfortable victory.
The Warriors have been the surprise package of NPFL 2024/2025 season. ( Photo Credit Abia Warriors media)
The result piles further misery on Lobi Stars, who remain rock bottom of the NPFL table with 23 points and just seven matches left to save their season.
Relegation to the Nigeria National League (NNL) is looking increasingly inevitable for the struggling side.
Tuesday’s NPFL Matchday 31 Results:
Kwara United 1-0 Nasarawa United
Sunshine Stars 0-0 Heartland
Kano Pillars 0-0 Bendel Insurance
Wednesday’s Fixtures:
Rangers vs Plateau United
Remo Stars vs Enyimba
Akwa United vs Niger Tornadoes
Elkanemi Warriors vs Shooting Stars
With Abia Warriors gaining momentum and Rivers United faltering, the battle for the top three spots in the NPFL is far from over.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW
All eyes will be on Remo Stars’ showdown with Enyimba, a match that could all but decide the fate of the title race.
