NPFL Matchday 12 Review: Remo Magic, Oriental Stalemate, and Away Day Joy for Rivers United as NPFL Leaders Hold Firm
Match of the Day: Remo Stars’ Dramatic Rescue
Remo Stars pulled off a spectacular, late-game comeback to secure a desperately needed victory, lifting themselves out of the immediate relegation danger. The win came despite a cloud hanging over the club, with whispers of resignation and the absence of their Head Coach. Facing defeat, the Sky Blue Stars summoned a burst of magic: Victor Mbaoma leveled the score from the penalty spot in the 87th minute, and Michael Ibe completed the dramatic 2-1 turnaround four minutes into stoppage time (90+4), snatching three points from the jaws of a frustrating defeat in Ikenne.
The Oriental Derby: Intensity Without Goals
The much-anticipated Oriental Derby between rivals Enyimba and Abia Warriors in Umuahia lived up to its reputation for raw intensity and fierce commitment, but ultimately failed to deliver goals. The two Eastern giants battled to a tense goalless stalemate, cancelling each other out in a result that satisfied neither set of fans.
Rivers United continued their steady climb, reaching 4th place on the league table after compounding the misery of struggling newcomers, Kun Khalifat. The Port Harcourt side secured a crucial 1-0 away win in Owerri thanks to Maclyn Biokpo’s decisive strike in the 78th minute.
Meanwhile, at ‘The Cathedral’ in Enugu, Rangers delighted their faithful with rousing “Holy Holy” chants as the Flying Antelopes expertly clipped the wings of Shooting Stars, sending the Oluyole Warriors back to Ibadan with bruised pride and a zero-point haul.
Boboye’s Unhappy Return
In Jos, Plateau United secured a vital win over Bendel Insurance. Gafar Saka’s 55th-minute finish was the difference, ensuring coach Kennedy Boboye had an empty-handed and unhappy return to the ground where he once celebrated great fame and fortune as a league-winning coach.
Across the NPFL: Draws, Wins, and Leader Status
Kwara United held Nasarawa United to a draw in Lafia, but the Solid Miners managed to hold onto their top spot on the league table despite the minor setback at home.
Elsewhere across the NPFL, Ikorodu City continued their bold, fearless fairytale run, pulling off an unexpected away win in Warri. The ‘Oga Boys’ are quietly but steadily moving into the serious NPFL conversation.
In Bauchi, Wikki Tourists, powered by the tactical steel of Abdul Maikaba, made life miserable for Tornadoes, grabbing a tight but priceless 1-0 win. Finally, in Katsina, the results were mixed: Katsina United were held at home by Barau FC, while Bayelsa United forced Kano Pillars to a frustrating goalless draw in the latter’s adopted home ground.
