Rangers International extended Kano Pillars’ difficult run with a commanding 2–0 victory on Sunday as Matchday 24 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) produced action-packed encounters across the country.
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Enyimba and Katsina United secured crucial wins, while Niger Tornadoes staged a late comeback to hold Bendel Insurance.
At the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, Rangers delivered a composed and efficient performance to overcome Kano Pillars.
Emmanuel Essien gave the hosts an early advantage in the 11th minute, setting the tone for the contest.
Shortly after the restart, Pillars defender Mukhtar Mohammed turned the ball into his own net, doubling Rangers’ lead and sealing maximum points for the Flying Antelopes.
In Aba, Enyimba edged Bayelsa United 1–0 in a tightly fought encounter. With chances at a premium, Samuel Agu proved decisive, striking in the 81st minute to hand the People’s Elephant a valuable home win and boost their league ambitions.
Wikki Tourists and Nasarawa United shared the points following a 1–1 draw in Bauchi. Nasarawa United struck first through Chimezie Victor in the 29th minute, but Wikki responded swiftly as Jonathan Mairiga equalised six minutes later, ensuring both sides settled for a share of the spoils.
Katsina United produced an impressive second-half display to defeat Abia Warriors 2–0. Uche Collins was the standout performer, scoring twice in quick succession in the 55th and 58th minutes to secure a comfortable victory for the Chanji Boys.
In Minna, Niger Tornadoes and Bendel Insurance served up a thrilling 2–2 draw. Bendel Insurance raced into an early lead with goals from Nnamdi Anthony and Chinedu Nwosu.
Tornadoes, however, mounted a spirited comeback after the break, with Abdulaziz Dalhatu reducing the deficit on 60 minutes before Rickson Mendos grabbed a dramatic equaliser in stoppage time.
With several matches still to be played on Monday, Matchday 24 is set to further influence both the NPFL title race and the battle to avoid relegation.
Results at a Glance (Sunday)
Rangers 2–0 Kano Pillars
(Emmanuel Essien 11’, Mukhtar Mohammed 49’ og)
Enyimba 1–0 Bayelsa United
(Samuel Agu 81’)
Wikki Tourists 1–1 Nasarawa United
(Jonathan Mairiga 35’ – Chimezie Victor 29’)
Katsina United 2–0 Abia Warriors
(Uche Collins 55’, 58’)
Niger Tornadoes 2–2 Bendel Insurance
(Abdulaziz Dalhatu 60’, Rickson Mendos 90+4’ – Nnamdi Anthony 2’, Chinedu Nwosu 38’)
