By Round 31 of the Nigeria Premier Football League concluded today, with some fans left disappointed while others celebrated convincing victories.
Similar to the previous day, matches kicked off at 4:00 p.m. Abia Warriors maximised their home advantage to hand Niger Tornadoes a 2-1 defeat. Goals from Azubuike and Lawal sealed the victory for the Warriors. Although Tornadoes pulled one back through a late strike from Joseph, it was not enough to earn the visitors a point.
In another thrilling encounter, Nasarawa United delivered a dominant performance to defeat Rivers United. Just three minutes into the game, Ngei opened the scoring for Nasarawa United before Abubakar Abdullahi doubled the lead. By the 16th minute, Rivers United were already three goals behind, leaving little hope for a comeback. Taiwo Abdulrafiu managed to pull one back for Rivers United in the first half, raising hopes of a second-half response. However, Nasarawa United extended their lead with a fourth goal in the 58th minute, sealing a 4-1 victory for the hosts.
Rivers United remain second on the league table with 52 points and a goal difference of six. They are followed by Nasarawa United, who now have 50 points and a superior goal difference.
Upcoming Fixtures
As the league approaches its final stretch with the title race still undecided, Round 32 is set to deliver another round of exciting fixtures, scheduled for March 28 and 29.
Bendel Insurance will face Plateau United, with both sides looking to build on their recent defensive solidity. Rivers United, after a heavy defeat, will aim to bounce back when they host Kun Khalifat, a side battling at the bottom of the table.
El Kanemi Warriors will take on Remo Stars, after coming into the fixture on the back of an emphatic win and will be looking to maintain momentum despite their relegation struggles. Shooting Stars, after their loss to Katsina United, will host Enugu Rangers in what promises to be a highly competitive and entertaining encounter.
Enyimba will go head-to-head with Abia Warriors, who are buoyed by their recent victory and will be confident heading into the clash. Kwara United will face Nasarawa United, who will be riding high after their dominant performance against Rivers United.
Bayelsa United will battle Kano Pillars, after returning to winning ways in their last outing, while Ikorodu City, still reeling from a late equaliser in their previous match, will take on Warri Wolves.
Barau FC will square up against Katsina United, and Niger Tornadoes, fresh from defeat, will seek redemption when they face Wikki Tourists.
