Matchday 7 of the 2025/26 NPFL season delivered real drama on Saturday, as Nasarawa United and El-Kanemi Warriors both claimed dramatic victories to shake up the standings.
⚽ Nasarawa United 1–0 Bendel Insurance — Garba’s Stoppage-Time Strike
In Benin City, Bendel Insurance looked set to hold on to at least a draw. Until substitute Mohammed Garba struck deep in stoppage time (93’) to hand the Solid Miners a precious 1–0 away win.
That strike not only extended Nasarawa United’s unbeaten run in six matches but also helped them build a firm grip on first place, pushing them to 16 points in the campaign. The win came with off-field celebrations too. The squad was rewarded with a ₦900,000 bonus from officials and supporters in recognition of their grit and persistence.
For Bendel Insurance, the loss is a crushing blow, they remain mired in the lower half of the table with just six points and mounting pressure on the technical staff to turn things around.
⚽ El-Kanemi Warriors 2–1 Kano Pillars — Abdulrahman Double Delivers
At the Maiduguri Sports Complex, El-Kanemi Warriors staged a thrilling comeback. Daddy Abdulrahman netted a brace, striking in the 62nd and 81st minutes to gift his side a 2–1 win. Kano Pillars nearly rescued a point late, with Suleiman Idris pulling one back in the 89th minute.
But it proved only a consolation as the home side held on. This result lifts El-Kanemi up the table and gives them momentum heading into the upcoming fixtures. Meanwhile, Kano Pillars’ struggle continues their campaign now primarily about survival.
⚽ Quick Stats and Implications
- Head-to-Head (El-Kanemi vs Kano Pillars): Over the past 11 meetings, the record is closely matched — 5 wins each and 1 draw.
- Nasarawa’s defense: To date, they have conceded very little – their tight defense continues to be a foundation of their top-of-the-table run.
- These matches reaffirm why the NPFL still thrills; late goals, shifts in momentum, and teams refusing to give up till the last whistle.
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