Nigeria Premier League

NPFL: Rangers Beat Heartland In Oriental Derby To Go Top

The ‘Flying Antelopes’, Rangers International F.C, Sunday, March 24, 2024, did a double over their eastern neighbors, Heartland F.C in the 2023/2024 NPFL season with a 2-1 win at the ‘Naze Millionaires’ adopted home ground, Aba, in a match day 27 encounter to add to the reverse fixture’ 2-0 spanking to leapfrog Lobi Stars and occupy the top position on the log.

A goal in either half of the highly entertaining encounter that was watched by an appreciable number of spectators AT THE Enyimba Stadium, Aba, saw the Enugu side take a late first-half lead as defense-general, Ifeanyi Onyebuchi jumped the highest to head home a Kalu Nweke took corner-kick on 38 minutes while Nweke slapped home 25 meters shot on 54 minutes to set the Coal City side on a winning path.

Substitute, Chukwuebuka Ogbonna, cut the deficit by a half as he reacted well to blast home on 90+4 minutes after being left unmarked by the backline of Rangers that failed to react well to a corner kick.

Coach Ilechukwu continued his rotation policy that has helped his squad go nine matches unbeaten as he handed starts to the quartet of Isaac Saviour, Zulkifilu Rabiu, Kalu Nweke, and Kazeem Ogunleye and it was pure dominance for the visitors as it was some missed opportunities that made the game go past the half-hour mark without a goal as Kazeem, Saviour, Obaje and Nweke had seen their efforts go wide off target.

The host also showed a fierce fighting spirit as the match went on, especially in the early part of the second stanza, but, tried as much as they could, they could not break down the defense line of the visitors ably led by the duo of Austin Opara and Ifeanyi Onyebuchi.

Coach Ilechukwu Fidelis in a post-match chat, said, “It was a great game between two great sides and I am very glad that we ended the game on the winning side. We worked very hard to earn this victory and I thank God for it and hopefully, we shall keep the momentum to push higher in the league.”

With the win, Rangers now occupy the prime position on the twenty teams log with 48 points from 27 matches and will next, host Sunshine Stars in a match day 28 fixture after prosecuting the final match of 2024 Enugu F.A Cup against NNL side, Coal City United at the weekend in Enugu.

Nigeria Premier League

Rivers United Back To Top Spot In NPFL Title Race

Rivers United are back on top of the NPFL standings after they beat visiting Kano Pillars and closest rivals Remo Stars fell at Niger Tornadoes.

Rivers United pipped Kano Pillars courtesy of a first-half strike by Aniekeme Okon to return of the table with 29 points from 15 matches.

Remo Stars slipped to second in the standings after they lost 2-1 at Niger Tornadoes.

They have 26 points, three points behind new leaders Rivers United.

Ikorodu City and Heartland FC continued their steady climb to top reckoning after they both won at home.

Ikorodu City smashed past Akwa United 4-1 to shoot to third place on the table with 24 points.

NPFL leading scorer Anas Yusuf broke his four-match run without a goal when he scored after 45 minutes to draw Nasarawa United level at 1-1 only for ‘The Solid Miners’ to fall 3-2 at Heartland.

Heartland are now ninth on the table on 20 points.

Bayelsa United held El Kanemi Warriors to a goalless draw in Maiduguri, while Katsina United edged past Sunshine Stars 1-0 at home.

Scorenigeria

Nigeria Premier League

Ahmed Musa Donates ₦500,000 Each To Kano Pillars, Mighty Teams

According to govima.com, Nigeria’s Super Eagles Icon, Ahmed Musa, has generously donated ₦500,000 each to the players of Kano Pillars FC Under-19 team and Mighty Jets Under-19 team. This gesture was in recognition of their impressive performances in the ongoing inaugural Under-19 Youth League.

The donation followed Kano Pillars Under-19’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Mighty Jets in a highly competitive match held on Tuesday at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano. The game showcased remarkable skill and determination from both sides, highlighting the potential of Nigeria’s budding football talents.

Musa, Nigeria’s all-time leading scorer in the FIFA World Cup, personally attended the match alongside his Kano Pillars teammates. He stayed to witness the conclusion of the Youth League fixture before joining his team’s training session in preparation for their Nigeria Premier Football League Match Day 13 clash against Lobi Stars.

Known for his leadership both on and off the pitch, Musa continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration. Since rejoining Kano Pillars, he has been instrumental in the team’s performance, contributing to 95% of their goals this season. Over the weekend, he scored his fifth goal of the season, a powerful header against Heartland FC, while also providing three assists and winning three penalties for his side.

Musa’s commitment to grassroots football development was evident in this latest act of generosity, which aims to motivate young players to pursue excellence. The Under-19 Youth League, a platform designed to uncover future stars, aligns perfectly with his vision for the growth of Nigerian football.

As Kano Pillars prepare to face Lobi Stars at the Lafia City Stadium on Saturday, fans are hopeful that Musa’s leadership and stellar form will continue to drive the four-time Nigerian champions towards success.

Ahmed Musa’s unwavering dedication to supporting the sport at all levels underscores his enduring legacy in Nigerian football, making him a role model for the next generation of players. His contributions, both financial and motivational, remain unparalleled, cementing his place as a true ambassador of the game.

Nigeria Premier League

Shehu Abdullahi : The Maestro’s Midfield Magic

By Abdul A Kaugama

Shehu Abdullahi’s outstanding performance in Kano Pillars’ recent match has left fans and critics in awe. The midfielder’s clinical work and vision on the pitch prove that he’s still a force to be reckoned with in Nigerian football.

With precision passing and exceptional control, Shehu dictated the pace of the game, showcasing his mastery of the midfield.

His experience and skill were evident as he effortlessly navigated the opposition’s defense. The fans’ electrifying energy was matched only by Shehu’s infectious passion for the game.

Shehu’s resurgence is a testament to his dedication and hard work. His display of top-notch football skills is a clarion call for his return to the Super Eagles. Nigeria’s national team needs his expertise and leadership to excel on the international stage.

In conclusion, Shehu Abdullahi’s impressive form is a welcome development for Nigerian football. As he continues to dazzle fans with his midfield magic, we eagerly anticipate his next move.
May Allah continue to bless Shehu Abdullahi with strength, wisdom, and success in his football career.