From impressive wins to fan violence – Nigeria’s top flight had it all this weekend.
Matchday 11 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) lived up to its billing, with drama unfolding across the country. Abia Warriors stole the spotlight with a hard-fought away win in Minna, while Shooting Stars Sports Club were left frustrated after being held at home in Ibadan.
In Minna, Abia Warriors proved that determination and discipline still win football matches. The Umuahia side went into their clash with Niger Tornadoes needing a big performance and they delivered. Sunday Megwo opened the scoring in the 38th minute, finishing off a well-crafted move that silenced the home crowd. Just before half-time, the Tornadoes’ day worsened when defender Sunday Akinmoladun turned the ball into his own net, giving Abia Warriors a two-goal cushion at the break.
Tornadoes came out fighting in the second half and pulled one back through Abdulrasheed Dabai in the 54th minute, but Abia’s backline held firm to see out a 2-1 victory. It was a huge statement result. Not just three points, but proof that the Warriors can grind out results on the road.
While Abia Warriors were celebrating in Minna, it was a different story in Ibadan, where Shooting Stars were held to a 1-1 draw by visiting Katsina United. The Oluyole Warriors created enough chances to win comfortably but were let down by wasteful finishing. The dropped points will sting, especially at the Lekan Salami Stadium, where 3SC pride themselves on being tough hosts.
Elsewhere, Rivers United continued their fine home form in Port Harcourt, edging Nasarawa United 1-0 thanks to Timothy Zachariah’s first-half strike. The win keeps the Pride of Rivers in the mix near the top of the table.
In Aba, Enyimba International reminded everyone why they are champions. The People’s Elephant were efficient and ruthless, beating Kano Pillars 2-0 with goals from John Bassey and Edidiong Ezekiel in the opening half-hour. It was a professional performance that sent a clear message; the champions are still very much in business.
Down south in Yenagoa, Bayelsa United showed spirit and resilience to come from behind and defeat Plateau United 2-1. Plateau had drawn first blood early on, but Bayelsa responded through Emo James, who struck twice to complete a memorable comeback for the Restoration Boys in front of their fans.
In Maiduguri, El-Kanemi Warriors and Rangers International battled to a goalless draw, a result that reflected both teams’ defensive discipline rather than a lack of ambition. Meanwhile, in Lagos, Ikorodu City made their fans proud with a confident 2-0 win over Kun Khalifat. Chidera Oparaocha opened the scoring in the 29th minute before Ibifubara Dagogo sealed the win just after the hour mark.
But beyond the goals and results, Matchday 11 also carried a sobering reminder about fan behaviour. The NPFL’s disciplinary committee announced sanctions following incidents involving Plateau United supporters, who clashed with match officials during their previous fixture.
The Jos-based club were fined, docked three points, and ordered to play their next three home games behind closed doors; a strong statement that the league will no longer tolerate crowd trouble. For a competition growing in global attention, it’s a necessary step to protect players, referees and fans alike.
From top to bottom, Matchday 11 showed everything that makes the NPFL special away wins, home stumbles, fight-backs and fine margins. For Abia Warriors, the victory in Minna could mark a turning point in their campaign, while Shooting Stars will be left wondering how two points slipped through their fingers.
As the league heads into the next round, fans at home and across the diaspora can agree on one thing: the NPFL is unpredictable, fiercely competitive and full of stories that capture the true pulse of Nigerian football.
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