The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 9 produced outstanding individual performances, dramatic victories and crucial goals, with Kano Pillars’ Yahaya Ibrahim, Sporting Lagos midfielder Jacob Aondona and Nasarawa United’s Kelechi Ogbodo among the standout players selected by Sports247.
From match-winning strikes to defensive excellence, six players distinguished themselves across the weekend’s fixtures.
Yahaya Ibrahim — Kano Pillars FC
(Kano Pillars 1-0 Katsina United)
Yahaya Ibrahim emerged as the hero of the Northern Derby, scoring the decisive goal in Kano Pillars’ narrow victory over Katsina United.
The forward struck in the sixth minute, sending the home supporters into celebration and ultimately settling the fiercely contested encounter.
His early goal proved sufficient to secure maximum points for the Sai Masu Gida.
Jacob Aondona — Sporting Lagos
(Plateau United 2-3 Sporting Lagos)
Sporting Lagos midfielder Jacob Aondona delivered one of Matchday 9’s most memorable moments with a spectacular long-range strike against Plateau United.
His 83rd-minute effort secured a dramatic 3-2 away victory for the Lagos-based club. The goal stands out as Sports247’s Goal of the Week, combining technique, accuracy and match-winning significance.
Kelechi Ogbodo — Nasarawa United
(Inter Lagos 0-2 Nasarawa United)
Kelechi Ogbodo played a decisive role in Nasarawa United’s impressive away victory at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan.
The attacker opened the scoring in the 11th minute before completing his brace in the 40th minute. His clinical finishing ensured Nasarawa United returned to Lafia with all three points.
Olughu Chinemerem — Nasarawa United
(Inter Lagos 0-2 Nasarawa United)
Nasarawa United goalkeeper Olughu Chinemerem also earned recognition following his clean-sheet performance against Inter Lagos.
Despite the hosts’ disappointing first-half display, Chinemerem maintained concentration and provided defensive assurance throughout the encounter. His contribution helped Nasarawa United protect their two-goal advantage.
Yusuf Abdulazeez — Niger Tornadoes
(Niger Tornadoes 2-1 Ikorodu City)
Centre-back Yusuf Abdulazeez continued his impressive performances for Niger Tornadoes following his arrival from El-Kanemi Warriors.
The defender has established a commanding presence in the Ikon Allah Boys’ backline, developing a solid defensive partnership. His contribution proved valuable as Tornadoes defeated visiting Ikorodu City 2-1.
Ali Ferinyaro — Kwara United
(Kwara United 1-1 Abia Warriors)
Young defender Ali Ferinyaro demonstrated his attacking qualities by opening the scoring for Kwara United in the 34th minute against Abia Warriors.
Although Emmanuel Nnaji equalised for the visitors in the 52nd minute, Ferinyaro’s contribution remained a highlight of the encounter.
Sports247’s Matchday 9 selections recognise players whose individual contributions influenced results, showcasing the quality and emerging talent across Nigeria’s top-flight league.
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