It was a weekend of shocks, surprises, and standout performances across Matchday 9 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), as newly promoted sides stole the spotlight while some of the league’s traditional giants faltered.
Promoted Teams Shine, Traditional Giants Falter
The newly promoted trio of Kun Khalifat FC, Warri Wolves, and Barau FC all recorded impressive victories over established NPFL sides.
Read Also: Nigeria Sports Commission Hails Para Powerlifters After Brilliant Outing in Cairo
In Yenagoa, Kun Khalifat stunned Bayelsa United 2–1, courtesy of goals from Uche Moses and Michael Akano, while Jawad Mustapha’s penalty proved only a consolation for the hosts.
In Aba, Warri Wolves pulled off another shock result, defeating Enyimba International 2–1. A Mohammed Hussaini own goal and Tejiri Emonena’s 67th-minute strike gave the visitors control before Edidiong Ezekiel reduced the deficit late on.
Meanwhile, Barau FC compounded Kano Pillars’ woes with a 2–1 win. Despite Rabiu Ali putting Pillars ahead, second-half goals from Yahaya Ibrahim and Stanley Oganbor sealed the comeback victory for the hosts.
Rivers United, Remo Stars Struggle on the Continent
It was a disappointing weekend for Nigeria’s continental representatives as both Rivers United and Remo Stars suffered setbacks in their CAF inter-club engagements.
Rivers United fell 1–0 away to Black Bullet in Maputo, while Remo Stars were humbled 5–1 at home by South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns in Abeokuta.
Both teams now face uphill tasks in their respective return legs as they chase a long-awaited spot in the CAF Champions League group stage — a feat no Nigerian club has achieved in the past five years.
Abdulaziz Dalhatu Nets First Hat-Trick of the Season
Niger Tornadoes forward Abdulaziz Dalhatu etched his name into NPFL history with the first hat-trick of the 2025/2026 campaign. His treble inspired Tornadoes to a commanding 4–0 victory over Plateau United, with Terdoo Shimagande adding a late fourth.
Dalhatu’s clinical display earns him a well-deserved nod as NPFL Player of the Week.
Shooting Stars Extend Unbeaten Run
Shooting Stars (3SC) continued their impressive form with a 2–0 win over Abia Warriors in Ibadan. Goals from Ayobami Junior and Qamar Adegoke stretched their unbeaten run to five matches.
Under the guidance of Coach Nurudeen Aweroro, who joined from Ikorodu City FC, the Oluyole Warriors appear revitalized and poised to mount a genuine title challenge after overcoming early-season teething issues.
Kano Pillars Suspend Technical Crew
Following a poor run of results capped by defeat to Barau FC, Kano Pillars management has suspended Technical Adviser Ogenyi Evans and Chief Coach Ahmed Garba Yaro Yaro with immediate effect.
The decision underscores the club’s growing frustration, as the Sai Masu Gida face mounting pressure to turn their season around and avoid a potential relegation battle.
As Matchday 9 concludes, the NPFL title race remains wide open a blend of unpredictability, rising stars, and shifting fortunes promising even more drama ahead of Matchday 10.
,){kind=link}