Shooting Stars edge Barau FC as Abia Warriors down Kun Khalifat; Enyimba and Bayelsa United shine at home.
Matchday 17 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) produced a weekend of competitive football across the country, with valuable away victories for Shooting Stars SC and Abia Warriors, and prominent home wins for Enyimba International FC and Bayelsa United as clubs jostle for league position with the season entering its pivotal phase.
Shooting Stars Edge Barau FC for Vital Road Win
In Kano, Shooting Stars SC delivered a critical victory on the road, edging Barau FC by a 1–0 scoreline. The Ibadan-based side secured all three points thanks to an early goal that proved enough in a tight encounter away from home, highlighting their away match resilience in the NPFL this season.
This result not only boosts Shooting Stars’ campaign in the top half of the league but also underlines their ability to grind out results in challenging away fixtures.
Abia Warriors Hold Firm Against Kun Khalifat
Similarly impressive on the road, Abia Warriors claimed a narrow 1–0 away win over Kun Khalifat FC in the oriental derby. The Umuahia side’s second victory away from home this campaign was a testament to their tactical discipline and attacking efficiency in tight matches, reinforcing their status as one of the season’s most consistent performers beyond their home ground.
Home Comfort for Enyimba and Bayelsa United
Back on familiar turf, Enyimba International FC delighted home supporters in Aba with a convincing 3–1 win over Kwara United. The People’s Elephant displayed attacking prowess and cohesion, bouncing back to collect maximum points after dropping earlier points in recent rounds.
At the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa, Bayelsa United produced an entertaining 2–1 home victory over defending champions Remo Stars. The Restoration Boys battled back after conceding first, showcasing determination and fighting spirit that could prove decisive as the season progresses.
Other Results From Matchday 17
Elsewhere, Niger Tornadoes delivered a resounding 3–0 home win, maintaining strong form at home and reinforcing their credentials as one of the league’s most dangerous attacking sides. Some matches ended evenly contested, with Warri Wolves vs. Kano Pillars and Plateau United vs. Nasarawa United both finishing goalless, illustrating the NPFL’s depth of competition across all fixtures.
In Enugu, Rangers International and Bendel Insurance played out a 1–1 draw, closing out a Matchday 17 packed with compelling storylines that will shape the league narrative in the weeks ahead.
What This Means for the League
As the NPFL season unfolds, away victories are becoming increasingly significant in shaping the title race and mid-table battles. Shooting Stars and Abia Warriors’ ability to secure points on the road adds weight to their campaigns, while strong home performances from Enyimba and Bayelsa United underline the importance of consistency both home and away.
With Matchday 18 looming and clubs preparing for a busy schedule, the narrative of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League continues to be driven by tightly contested encounters, emerging away strengths, and tactical developments across the board. Hot Sports Scoops will be right here with every verified update.
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