After a recent clash with Niger Tornadoes in Minna, former champions Rivers United have surged ahead in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), creating a two-point lead in the standings. Their narrow victory, marked by a lone goal, positions them as potential challengers to Remo Stars at the top of the table, and notably, they remain the only team without a defeat this season.

In a match that started without scoring in the first half, Seiyefa Jackson broke the deadlock just after halftime, finding the net in the 47th minute. Despite strong attempts from the home side to equalize, Rivers United’s defense held firm, even as Emmanuel Nnaji received a red card towards the end of the match. With this win, Rivers United now leads with 20 points, while Remo Stars has dropped to second place with 18 points. Enyimba, who suffered a loss on Sunday, holds onto third place with 14 points.

In other action yesterday, Ikorodu City continued their impressive form with an eye-catching 4-2 victory over Lobi Stars, led by Daniel Amokachi at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Lagos Island. Ikorodu City took an early lead with Salaudeen Taiwo scoring within the first two minutes, and Emmanuel Solomon quickly doubled the advantage in the 19th minute. However, Lobi Stars fought back, equalizing just before halftime thanks to two rapid goals from Ifeanyi Assurance.

Nonetheless, Ikorodu City reclaimed the lead in the 56th minute with a goal from Solomon Alade, followed by a second goal from Rivio Ayemwenre in the 58th minute, which ultimately sealed the victory and pushed Ikorodu City to eight points, although they remain in the relegation zone.

In Ibadan, a solitary goal from Adam Mustapha in the 67th minute secured a win for the Shooting Stars against Katsina United, while Enugu Rangers battled to a goalless draw against Akwa United in Uyo.