The Nigeria Premier Football League title race and relegation battle will go down to the final day of the season after dramatic results on matchday 37 kept several clubs fighting for glory and survival.
Rivers United kept their title hopes alive with a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Wikki Tourists in Bauchi.
Jonathan Mairiga gave Wikki the lead in the 21st minute before Handsome Surveyor equalised for Rivers United in the 35th minute. Imamu Bala restored Wikki’s advantage shortly after the restart, but Rivers again fought back before netting an 83rd-minute winner to secure maximum points.
The victory kept Rivers United one point behind league leaders Enugu Rangers, who defeated Bendel Insurance 2-1 in Enugu.
Godwin Obaje opened scoring for Rangers in the 18th minute before Bendel Insurance equalised through Alex Oweifaleya. Obaje later converted a penalty in the 66th minute to hand the Flying Antelopes a vital win.
With one round of matches remaining, Rangers top the table with 65 points, while Rivers United are second on 64 points.
Rangers will secure the title if they beat Ikorodu City in Lagos on the final day, while Rivers United must defeat Katsina United and hope Rangers drop points.
Ikorodu City’s continental ambitions suffered a setback after a heavy 4-1 defeat to Katsina United. Jamilu Yusuf scored twice, while Azeez Falolu added another as Katsina dominated the encounter.
Shooting Stars boosted their continental hopes with a 1-0 victory over Barau FC courtesy of Lucky Emmanuel’s first-half strike.
At the bottom of the table, Bayelsa United and Wikki Tourists were officially relegated after matchday 37 results.
Bayelsa United fell 2-1 to defending champions Remo Stars despite taking an early lead through Ofem Nneoyi. Alex Oyowah and Victor Mbaoma completed the comeback for Remo Stars, who remain in relegation danger despite the victory.
Enyimba also remain under pressure after suffering a 2-0 defeat to Kwara United, with Babatunde Bright scoring both goals.
Elsewhere, Kun Khalifat boosted their survival hopes with a 2-0 win over Abia Warriors, while Kano Pillars edged Warri Wolves 1-0 and Nasarawa United defeated Plateau United 1-0.
The final round of NPFL fixtures will now determine both the league champions and the remaining relegation spots in what promises to be a dramatic end to the season.
