Ikorodu City bolstered their continental aspirations with a decisive victory over Kano Pillars, while Rivers United returned to the top of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with a 1-0 victory against Plateau United.
As the season approaches a tight conclusion, Matchday 34 produced significant twists across the board, escalating both the race for the championship and the struggle for survival.
Wisdom Samuel’s goal in the eleventh minute gave Rivers United a slim victory and put the Port Harcourt team atop the standings with 58 points.
Niger Tornadoes held the closest rivals, Rangers International, to a goalless draw in Minna, although they continued to apply pressure. Rangers are now two points below the top thanks to the outcome.
Ikorodu City’s 3-0 victory at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena was one of the best performances of the weekend. In the 28th minute, Joseph Arumala scored his 12th goal of the year to open the score.
Abayomi Ayodeji clinched the victory in the last moments after Tosin Oyedokun extended the lead in the 70th minute. As they pursue their first continental ticket in just their second season, the Lagos team currently sits third with 55 points.
There was drama elsewhere as a result of the relegation struggle. Kwara United held Shooting Stars 0-0, moving the Ilorin team to 16th place and out of the drop zone ahead of their stadium comeback.
Remo Stars, the reigning champions, lost badly to Barau FC in Kano, 2-1. Remo took the lead in the 63rd minute thanks to a goal from Haruna Hadi, but Joseph Atule equalized seven minutes later, and Joseph Kemin finished the comeback in the 83rd. Remo Stars is now in 19th place as a result of the defeat.
Enyimba’s impressive 3-0 victory over Katsina United in Aba allayed their fears. Chidera Michael scored a second goal shortly after Stanley Dimgba’s first, and Wonah Williams completed the victory in the 79th minute. With 43 points, the nine-time champions move up to 12th place.
Imamu Bala’s goal in the 67th minute gave Wikki Tourists the sole away victory of the round, defeating Bayelsa United 1-0 in Yenagoa.
With a 3-0 victory over Nigerian National League Wolves, bottom-place Kun Khalifat maintained their chances of survival. Before Uchechukwu Onuoha added a late brace, Mmesoma Nnorom scored first. They are still in last place with 39 points despite the victory.
Remo Stars, Wikki Tourists, Bayelsa United, and Kwara United are all tied for 40 points just above them, highlighting the intense battle to avoid relegation with four teams in danger.
El-Kanemi Warriors will host Nasarawa United in Maiduguri later today, April 13, to conclude Matchday 34.
