Rangers Stumble, Rivers Slip as Pillars, Remo and Kun Khalifa Boost Survival Fight

It was a dramatic weekend in the Nigeria Premier Football League as momentum swung across the table, with title contenders slipping and teams at the bottom finding renewed belief.

League leaders Rangers International failed to strengthen their grip at the top after being held to a goalless draw by Barau United in Enugu. Despite controlling much of the game, the hosts could not convert their chances, and a disallowed goal for offside summed up a frustrating outing.

Things went from bad to worse for Rivers United, whose poor away form continued. They suffered a 2-0 defeat to Warri Wolves, a result that further weakens their fading title ambitions.

Meanwhile, the fight for survival gathered pace. Remo Stars secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Shooting Stars, while Kano Pillars delivered one of the standout performances of the round, thrashing Bendel Insurance 4-0. The heavy defeat piles more pressure on the Benin side, who are still dealing with instability on the bench involving Kennedy Boboye.

The biggest surprise came in Lafia, where struggling Kun Khalifa FC pulled off a stunning 1-0 win against Nasarawa United. After soaking up intense pressure, the visitors snatched victory with a late goal deep into stoppage time.

Elsewhere, Kwara United boosted their chances of staying up with a convincing 3-0 win over El-Kanemi Warriors, while Katsina United edged Niger Tornadoes 1-0 to steady their campaign.

On the road, Enyimba FC showed character to earn a 2-2 draw against Wikki Tourists, a result that does little to ease the hosts’ struggles this season.

With the season entering a decisive phase, every result is proving crucial, as the race for the title and the battle to avoid relegation both intensify.