Matchday 35 of the Nigeria Premier Football League delivered another action-packed weekend, with dramatic finishes, surprise away wins, and important results that continue to shape both ends of the table as the season nears its conclusion.
From Maiduguri to Kano and Enugu, fans were treated to a series of tightly contested fixtures filled with goals and momentum swings.
Shooting Stars pull off stunning comeback in Maiduguri
One of the standout results came in the northeast, where El-Kanemi Warriors were beaten at home by a determined Shooting Stars SC side.
The home supporters had something to cheer about in the 25th minute when John Zakka gave El-Kanemi the lead. However, the advantage lasted only until the start of the second half.
Shooting Stars came out with renewed intensity after the break, and Qamar Adegoke levelled the score just a minute into the second half. The visitors continued to push forward, and Adegoke completed his brace in the 86th minute, sealing a memorable 2-1 comeback victory on the road.
Abia Warriors edge Ikorodu City in tight contest
In Umuahia, Abia Warriors FC secured a hard-fought 2-1 win over Ikorodu City FC in a game that featured early goals and sustained pressure.
Paul Samson opened the scoring in the 20th minute, giving the home side a strong start. Before halftime, Valentine Ugwu doubled the advantage, putting Abia Warriors in control.
Ikorodu City responded in the 35th minute through Aderemi Adeoye, reducing the deficit and keeping the contest alive. Despite efforts from the visitors in the second half, Abia Warriors held firm to secure all three points.
Remo Stars continue dominant run
Defending champions Remo Stars FC once again showed their quality with a commanding 3-0 win over Niger Tornadoes FC.
Victor Mbaoma got them off to a flying start with an early goal in the 10th minute. Just before the interval, Olamilekan Adedayo doubled the lead, giving the champions full control of the match.
In the second half, Samuel Anakwe added a third in the 78th minute to complete a comfortable and convincing performance.
Kwara United secure narrow home victory
At Ilorin, Kwara United FC claimed a 2-1 win over Barau FC in a closely fought encounter.
Toheeb Gidado put the hosts ahead in the 15th minute, and Saheed Olaniyi later converted a penalty just before halftime to extend the lead.
Barau FC improved after the break and pulled one back in the 66th minute through Joseph Atule, but Kwara United managed the closing stages effectively to preserve their advantage.
Rangers complete derby comeback against Enyimba
The most anticipated fixture of the weekend took place in Enugu, where Rangers International FC hosted rivals Enyimba FC in a fiercely contested Oriental derby.
Enyimba struck first after the restart through Wonah Williams in the 49th minute, taking control of the atmosphere inside the stadium.
However, Rangers responded strongly. Chidozie Iwundu equalised in the 61st minute, before Ifeanyi Onyebuchi completed the turnaround just seven minutes later.
The comeback sparked celebrations among the home supporters as Rangers secured a valuable 2-1 victory over their rivals.
Nasarawa United and Kano Pillars enjoy late drama
Elsewhere, Nasarawa United FC produced a dominant display to defeat Warri Wolves FC 3-0.
Victor Chimezie opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 43rd minute, while second-half goals from Ngei Oluka-Efor and Habibu Alakija sealed a comfortable win.
In Kano, Kano Pillars FC edged out Rivers United FC in dramatic fashion.
Abdullahi Musa gave Pillars the lead in the 81st minute, but Rivers United equalised late through Handsome Surveyor in the 89th minute. Just when it looked like the points would be shared, veteran striker Ahmed Musa struck deep into stoppage time to secure a 2-1 victory for Kano Pillars.
Matchday 35 once again highlighted the unpredictable nature of the NPFL, with late goals, comeback wins, and shocking results across multiple venues.
As the season moves into its final stages, every point remains crucial, with teams fighting hard for continental qualification, mid-table security, and survival in one of Africa’s most competitive leagues.
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