NPFL Matchday 7 Review: Nasarawa United’s Fairytale Run Continues As Kwara United Stumble, 3SC Steal The Show Late
3 min read
By Sedara Philip
The drama in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) continued over the weekend with thrilling results across various centers — from last-minute heartbreaks to fairytale runs. Matchday Seven lived up to the league’s reputation for unpredictability and passion.
Kwara United’s Nightmare at Home
Kwara United’s struggles deepened in Ilorin as visiting Abia Warriors stunned the home crowd with a hard-fought 1–0 victory.
A bizarre moment in the 48th minute proved decisive — Kwara United’s goalkeeper handled an indirect pass inside the box, gifting Abia Warriors a penalty. Forward Emeka Obioma made no mistake, converting calmly to hand the “Umu Chineke Boys” their second consecutive league win since their CAF Confederation Cup exit.
The defeat leaves Coach Tunde Sanni under mounting pressure, with reports suggesting the club’s management may issue an ultimatum if results don’t improve soon.
3SC Leave It Late in Ibadan
Over at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) showed grit and determination, grabbing a dramatic late winner to seal back-to-back victories.
Despite dominating play and missing several chances, the Oluyole Warriors were finally rewarded when Ismail Ayodele smashed home in the 94th minute, sparking wild celebrations among fans who turned the arena into a carnival of joy.
No Goals, No Glory in Aba
In Aba, Enyimba and Rivers United played out a cagey 0–0 draw that reflected mutual respect more than missed opportunities. Both sides struggled to find a breakthrough, with defences standing tall throughout a tense contest.
Bayelsa United Held Again, Tornadoes Frustrated at Home
It was more frustration for Bayelsa United, as Ikorodu City once again proved their away resilience by forcing a 1–1 draw in Yenagoa.
Elsewhere, Niger Tornadoes were denied maximum points by a rejuvenated Kun Khalifat, who earned a commendable 1–1 draw after recovering from their previous home defeat to Barau FC.
Warri Wolves Bounce Back, El-Kanemi Survive Scare
After suspending Coach Napoleon Aluma midweek, Warri Wolves responded impressively, edging Barau FC 1–0 to restore confidence.
Meanwhile, in Maiduguri, El-Kanemi Warriors narrowly escaped late heartbreak after Kano Pillars’ Sulaiman Idris came close to equalizing in the 89th minute. The hosts held on firmly to secure all three points.
Nasarawa United’s Rise Continues
The story of the season so far belongs to Nasarawa United. From battling relegation last term to now leading the NPFL table, the “Solid Miners” continued their unstoppable form with a gritty 1–0 win away to Bendel Insurance in Benin — extending their unbeaten streak to six matches.
For Bendel Insurance, however, the misery deepens, as their once-impenetrable fortress has become an easy hunting ground for visiting teams.
Rangers vs Katsina United Ends in Rain Drama
At the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, nature had the final say as torrential rain forced the abandonment of Rangers International’s clash with Katsina United after 60 minutes, with the score still goalless.
The NPFL: Still Nigeria’s Greatest Football Story
From shocking upsets to last-minute winners, the NPFL continues to deliver passion, unpredictability, and top-tier entertainment under the Gbenga Elegbeleye-led board.
Each weekend, the league reminds fans that it’s not just about football — it’s a drama-filled theatre of dreams where every team writes its own story.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
