Drama, Passion, and Grit: A Thrilling Weekend in the NPFL
By Tolulope Oguntimehin
Two away wins, one draw, and five home victories set the tone for a pulsating weekend in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL). Yet, the biggest headline of all was the swirling speculation about Daniel Amokachi’s rumoured resignation as Lobi Stars coach following a frustrating 0-0 stalemate against Heartland FC, led by fellow ex-international Emmanuel Amuneke. Although the club management swiftly debunked the rumours, the coming days will surely reveal the truth behind the whispers.
Meanwhile, on the field, the action was electric. Abia Warriors defied their inconsistent form to snatch a stunning away victory over Bayelsa United, right in front of Governor Douye Diri. The warriors embodied the fiery words of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu: “Power is not served a la carte; you fight for it, grab it, snatch it, and run with it.” And they did just that, leaving the Bayelsa faithful in disbelief.
But Abia Warriors weren’t the only team embracing the “grab it and run” mentality. The Flying Antelopes of Enugu Rangers, licking their wounds from a midweek loss to Shooting Stars, stormed Minna and upset Niger Tornadoes with a gutsy 33rd-minute strike from Bashiru Umar. Against all odds, Rangers claimed the precious three points.
In Ikorodu, the “Oga Boys” of Ikorodu City had their mettle tested as clubs seem to be figuring out their style of play. Once sitting pretty in third place, reality is now biting hard. Yet, against relegation-threatened Sunshine Stars, their tenacity shone through in a gritty 2-1 victory.
Meanwhile, Shooting Stars seem to be basking in a “Detty December” like no other. In five December matches, the Oluyole Warriors have gone unbeaten, scoring seven goals, conceding none, and winning two crucial away fixtures against Rangers and Sunshine Stars. Their final home game of the year against Kwara United ended in a narrow but well-earned 1-0 victory, cementing their status as one of the league’s form teams.
Elsewhere, Remo Stars’ coach, fresh from leading the home-based Eagles to a 3-1 triumph over Ghana, was back on the sidelines. His tactical acumen was evident as Remo Stars edged a resilient Akwa United 2-1, with their opponents still reeling from the resignation of their coach, Babaganaru.
In the northern derby, El-Kanemi Warriors sent a message with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Kano Pillars, while Katsina United left it late against Nasarawa United. Azeez Falolu’s 73rd-minute goal sealed the win, plunging Nasarawa deeper into trouble.
It was a weekend that had it all: drama, passion, and the relentless pursuit of glory. The NPFL continues to deliver moments that remind us why football remains the beautiful game.
