Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan secured a 1-0 home victory against Enugu Rangers, as the race for the 2023/2024 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) title intensifies.
Despite the loss, Rangers still lead the league standings with 64 points, but the competition for a top-three finish has become even more thrilling after the conclusion of Matchday 36 fixtures.
Plateau United re-entered the race for a continental ticket with a 2-1 away win against Sporting Lagos. Meanwhile, Remo Stars and Shooting Stars capitalized on Enyimba’s slip-up at home to Bayelsa United.
At the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, Chimezie Izuchukwu and Bernard Mundi gave Plateau United a 2-0 first-half lead before Jonathan Alukwu reduced the deficit in the 79th minute for Sporting Lagos. Plateau United climbed to fifth with 57 points, while Sporting Lagos dropped to 17th, falling into the relegation zone.
In Ikenne, Remo Stars confirmed Heartland FC’s relegation from the top flight with a 4-1 thrashing at the Remo Stars Stadium. This result leaves Heartland unable to finish higher than 19th, while Remo Stars moved up to second with 62 points, just behind league leaders, Enugu Rangers, who have 64 points.
Enyimba’s hopes of qualifying for the CAF Champions League next season suffered a setback after a disappointing 1-1 home draw with Bayelsa United, who boosted their survival chances with the point gained.
At the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa United extended their gap from the relegation zone to three points with a 3-1 victory over Katsina United, marking their fourth win in six games. In a North Central derby at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna, Niger Tornadoes defeated Lobi Stars 3-2, moving within a point of safety in 12th spot with 48 points.
Gombe United were defeated 3-1 by Abia Warriors at the Pantami Stadium, while Kwara United secured a 2-0 win over Kano Pillars.
