In a riveting spectacle on Matchday 7 of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), Doma United showcased their prowess with a resounding 3-0 victory over Gombe United. The heroes of the day were Emmanuel Ekpeyong and Emmanuel Jesam, who scored a brace, securing Doma United’s second win of the season.
Abia Warriors also left their mark by climbing to the fourth position in the NPFL table. They clinched a narrow 2-1 victory against Katsina United, thanks to an impressive first-half brace from Ibrahim Dehinde. Although Katsina United managed to pull one back with a late consolation goal by Falolu Azeez in the 86th minute, Abia Warriors celebrated a well-earned win.
In a closely contested match, Akwa United, under the leadership of Fatai Osho, were unable to secure a consecutive victory and had to settle for a draw against Plateau United. The draw leaves them in the 17th spot on the league standings.
Bendel Insurance, guided by Ismail Sarki, handed Remo Stars their second defeat of the season with a tight 1-0 victory in Benin.
Enugu Rangers asserted their dominance by ascending to the top of the NPFL table. They achieved a comfortable 2-0 win over the bottom-placed Heartland Owerri, with goals courtesy of Kazeem Ogunleye in the 3rd minute and Kenneth Igboke in the 53rd minute.
Enyimba secured their second league victory of the season with a 1-0 win over Kwara United. Mbaoma Chijioke converted a penalty kick in extra time of the first half, sealing the victory for Enyimba.
Sunshine Stars appeared poised for an away victory against Rivers United, thanks to Osimaga Duke’s goal that put Sunshine in front. However, Rivers United snatched a late draw in the 95th minute through Alex Oyowah, resulting in a share of the spoils.
Shooting Stars thrilled their home fans with an impressive 4-1 victory over Niger Tornadoes. The first half ended in a draw as Niger Tornadoes’ midfielder, Ernest Chidibere, canceled out Shooting Stars’ goal scored by Ayobami Adekunle. However, Shooting Stars dominated the second half, securing three goals with Samuel Bamidele, Gbolagade Adelowo, and Kareem Ademola finding the back of the net.
Sporting Lagos returned to winning ways with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Kano Pillars on Matchday 7. Former Kano Pillars ace Junior Lokosa scored twice, and Jonathan Alukwu found the back of the net for the fourth successive game, propelling Sporting Lagos to sixth place in the league.
In a crucial clash, Lobi Stars claimed a vital 2-1 away win against Bayelsa United in Yenagoa, propelling them to the summit of the NPFL standings. Samuel Tiza gave the Makurdi-based side the lead in the first half before Robert Mizo equalized with a powerful header, marking his sixth goal of the season. Tiza added a second in the second half to seal the points for his side.
Matchday 7 in the NPFL delivered a thrilling blend of victories, draws, and standout performances, setting the stage for an electrifying league season. As the competition intensifies, football enthusiasts can look forward to more exciting moments and extraordinary displays of talent in the NPFL.