Sporting Lagos are edging closer to a return to the Nigeria Premier Football League as the race for promotion from the Nigeria National League Conference B heads into a decisive finale, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Lagos-based side requires maximum points from their remaining fixtures against Rovers FC and Osun United to seal promotion and end their two-year absence from the top flight.

Sporting Lagos has gathered momentum at a crucial stage of the campaign, delivering consistent performances that have placed them firmly in control of their fate. Their balance across the squad and disciplined approach have made them favourites heading into the final stretch.

However, the promotion race remains tightly contested, with Akwa United still in the hunt. The Uyo-based side currently leads Conference B with 31 points and must secure victory against Solution FC while hoping Sporting Lagos drops points in either of their remaining matches.

Akwa United have impressed throughout the season with a solid defensive structure and efficient attacking play, ensuring they remain competitive in what has been a closely fought group.

With little margin for error, both teams face high-pressure fixtures that will ultimately determine who secures promotion. While Sporting Lagos holds a slight advantage, Akwa United’s persistence sets up a thrilling conclusion to the Conference B race.

The Disciplinary Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation has upheld sanctions against Kebbi United following a protest over the use of an ineligible player in a Nigeria National League fixture, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The decision was reached during the Committee’s meeting on March 30, 2026, after reviewing a protest filed by Kebbi United challenging an earlier ruling by the league authorities.

Key Findings

After examining submissions and evidence, the Committee confirmed that Kebbi United fielded a player, Dawud Ibrahim, who did not possess a valid license at the time of the match against Yobe Desert Stars.

Testimonies from NNL Chief Operating Officer Danlami Alanana and the league’s Registration Desk Officer established that the player’s registration was still pending on match day. The Committee also noted that no form of authorization was granted to allow the player’s participation.

Further discrepancies were identified in the match documentation, with the player listed as Dawud Ibrahim wearing jersey number three in official records but appearing with number 36 during the game. The absence of license numbers for other players on the match report was also highlighted, with the Committee interpreting it as a deliberate attempt to bypass regulations.

Decisions and Sanctions

Based on its findings, the Committee ruled that Kebbi United breached Article 11.13 of the NNL Rules by fielding an ineligible player.

The protest was consequently dismissed, and the earlier decision of the NNL Disciplinary Committee was upheld. The sanctions imposed include:

A fine of #1,000,000 for violating league regulations

Forfeiture of three points and three goals to Yobe Desert Stars

The Committee, however, stated that Kebbi United retains the right to appeal the decision.

Committee Composition

The meeting was chaired by Barr. JBC Obikwelu, with Barr. Abdulrahman I. Abdulrahman is serving as Vice Chairman. Other members present included Barr. Wole Ademoyegun and Barr. Bello Galadi, while Queen W. Otarakpo, Esq., acted as Secretary.

Ademola Lookman provided a crucial assist as Atlético Madrid secured qualification for the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League despite a 3–2 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur F.C. in Wednesday’s round of 16 second leg clash, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Atlético progressed with a 7–5 aggregate victory, having built a commanding advantage with a 5–2 win in the first leg.

With Spurs leading 1–0, Lookman played a key role in the equaliser early in the second half, cutting inside on the counter before laying a precise pass for Julián Álvarez, who fired into the top corner in the 47th minute.

Randal Kolo Muani had earlier opened the scoring for the hosts in the 30th minute, while Xavi Simons netted twice, including a late penalty, to give Tottenham victory on the night. Atlético’s second goal came through David Hancko, who headed home from a corner to level the score at 2–2 before Spurs struck again late on.

At Anfield, it was a disappointing night for Victor Osimhen, who was forced off with injury as Liverpool FC overturned their first-leg deficit to thrash Galatasaray SK 4–0, sealing a 4–1 aggregate win.

Elsewhere, Bayern Munich booked their place in the last eight with a dominant 4–1 victory over Atalanta BC, progressing 10–2 on aggregate.

The quarter-final lineup is now confirmed, with blockbuster ties set to follow. Paris Saint-Germain F.C. will face Liverpool, FC Barcelona will take on Atlético Madrid, and Real Madrid CF will meet Bayern Munich. Arsenal F.C. will square off against Sporting CP.

The results capped a dramatic round of 16, with Nigerian stars experiencing mixed fortunes on Europe’s biggest club stage.

The Disciplinary Committee of the Nigeria National League has suspended Ferdinand Mbum, General Manager of Mighty Jets F.C., for one home match following comments deemed capable of inciting hostility against match officials, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The ruling followed Mighty Jets’ Matchday 12 fixture against Lobi Stars F.C. at the Zaria Road Stadium in Jos.

According to reports from the pre-match meeting, Mbum allegedly made statements suggesting his team must win the encounter and claimed that referees who had previously officiated matches in Jos had cheated visiting teams without facing consequences.

The remarks raised concerns among league officials over possible intimidation of referees and the integrity of match officiating.

In its verdict, the Disciplinary Committee described the comments as capable of creating tension and undermining the independence and safety of match officials. As a result, Mbum was handed a one-home-match suspension alongside a stern warning from the league authorities.

The NNL reiterated its commitment to protecting match officials and maintaining discipline among club administrators, stressing that further breaches of its code of conduct could attract more severe sanctions.

The development is part of ongoing efforts by the league to strengthen professionalism and enforce higher standards across clubs competing in Nigeria’s second-tier football competition.

Head coach of Heartland FC, Emmanuel Amuneke, has described the Nigeria National League as one of the most demanding competitions in the country following his team’s 3–1 victory over Smart City FC, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

Speaking after the match at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri, Amuneke acknowledged the intensity of the league despite Heartland’s impressive comeback performance.

“This league is very tough,” Amuneke said shortly after the final whistle, stressing that teams must maintain a high level of focus throughout the campaign.

The visitors made a bright start as Erikan Francis put Smart City ahead just two minutes into the encounter, placing immediate pressure on the home side in front of their supporters.

Heartland responded strongly to the early setback, with Jonathan Osondu equalising in the 21st minute with a well-taken strike to restore parity.

The Owerri-based side continued to push forward and completed the turnaround just before halftime when Gafar Ojo scored in the 45th minute to give Heartland a 2–1 lead.

Amuneke’s men maintained their attacking momentum in the second half and secured the victory in the 70th minute through Ali Sunday, who added a third goal to put the result beyond doubt.

The win provides a significant boost for Heartland in the ongoing NNL campaign as the club aims to improve its position on the league table.

Amuneke also praised his players for their determination and composure after conceding early, emphasising that consistency will be crucial as the challenging season progresses.

Head coach of Akwa United, Paul Offor, has reiterated that the club’s main objective this season is to secure promotion back to the top flight of Nigerian football, Nigeriasoccernet.com understands.

The Promise Keepers are currently competing in the Nigeria National League and are determined to earn a swift return to the Nigeria Premier Football League after their relegation to the second division.

Speaking to the club’s media team, Offor stressed the importance of staying focused as the campaign enters a crucial stage with only a few matches left to play.

“The remaining six matches are very crucial for us, and we cannot afford to be complacent. We must remain focused and ensure we make the most of our chances,” Offor said.

The tactician further emphasised that consistency will be key if the team hopes to maintain its push for promotion this season.

“We are not yet where we want to be, and we have to sustain our current momentum by showing consistency in our performance.

“We have reached a stage in our campaign where we must approach every match like a cup final.

“We cannot gamble with our chances. We must be fully prepared to fight and win together because our objective is to finish the season strongly.”

Akwa United will look to keep their promotion hopes alive when they take on Osun United in their next league fixture.

The Nigeria National League, NNL, has approved Lobi Stars’ return to the McCarthy Stadium in Makurdi after a fresh round of inspections confirmed that the facility now meets required standards, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The decision comes months after the venue was initially rejected at the start of the season due to the club’s failure to put basic facilities in place. Following recent upgrades, league officials revisited the stadium and expressed satisfaction with the improvements carried out.

NNL Chief Operating Officer, Danlami Alanana, explained that the approval was granted based on the visible progress made at the stadium.

“For now, we are impressed with the upgrade they have. We visited and have seen what they have,” Alanana told NNL media.

He, however, emphasized that the clearance remains provisional and could be withdrawn if standards are not maintained.

“Recall the same venue was chosen for the opening match of the season, but we had to disapprove of it because of their failure to put basic facilities in place. What they have now is better,” he added.

Lobi Stars had played their home matches during the first stanza of the campaign at the Lafia City Stadium. The Makurdi-based side will now return to familiar territory, starting with a home fixture against Doma United in their opening match of the second stanza.

Nine-time NPFL champions Enyimba are set to announce Deji Ayeni as their new technical adviser, with an official reveal expected next week, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Ayeni, 53, is set to take the reins from suspended coach Stanley Eguma, who was relieved of his duties in November due to poor results.

Lawrence Ukaegbu has been holding fort in an interim capacity, but Ayeni's appointment will bring stability to the People's Elephant.

The experienced coach, who last managed Crown FC of Ogbomosho in the NNL, has a wealth of experience in Nigerian football, having worked with top clubs like Sunshine Stars and Akwa United.

Ayeni's task is clear: revive Enyimba's fortunes in the second half of the 2025/26 season.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun 

The breakthrough came in the 30th minute when the referee awarded the hosts a penalty after Yahaya Sani was brought down in the box. Okon Eta stepped up and calmly converted from the spot to give Mighty Jets the lead.

The hosts doubled their advantage nine minutes into the second half. Yahaya Sani, who won the penalty, got on the scoresheet himself in the 54th minute with a neat finish from inside the box.

Mighty Jets were firmly in control by the 70th minute when captain Saleh Muhammed rose highest to head home from a corner kick, completing a dominant performance by the Jets.

Despite the convincing win—only their second of the season—Mighty Jets remain seventh and bottom of the NNL Conference C table with six points. ABS FC, meanwhile, sits fifth with eight points after seven matches.

Uche Dozie 

After 450 minutes of football, Gateway FC finally secured their first three points of the 2026 Nigeria National League season on match day 7 with a dramatic 2–1 home victory over Crown FC of Ogbomosho, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

Babatunde Taofeek was the hero of the day, scoring twice to end Gateway FC’s winless run. The forward opened the scoring in the 17th minute from the spot before producing a stunning strike deep into stoppage time, netting the winner in the 94th minute to spark celebrations among the home supporters.

Crown FC responded strongly after going behind and were rewarded in the 36th minute when Mojeed Adejunle restored parity, ensuring the contest was delicately poised at the end of the first half.

Despite a tense second period, it was Taofeek’s late heroics that ultimately separated the two sides at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, handing Gateway FC a long-awaited victory and a much-needed boost to their campaign.

Uche Dozie

City FC Abuja recorded a crucial 1–0 victory over Doma United FC in a Nigeria National League (NNL) Matchday 7 encounter played at the FIFA Goal Project Pitch, Package B of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

After a tightly contested first half, the breakthrough arrived in the second period when Shuaib Akinwande found the back of the net to give City FC the decisive advantage.

The goal came from a corner kick situation after a scramble and confusion saw the ball fall to Joseph Donatus, whose pass was put into the net by Akinwande.

Doma United pushed hard for an equaliser and came closest through their talisman and leading goalscorer, Mathew Ogenyi, who currently has four goals this season. His powerful long-range effort looked destined for the net but was brilliantly finger-tipped away by City FC goalkeeper Samuel Agbana, whose acrobatic save preserved the hosts’ lead.

The victory moves City FC Abuja to sixth position with eight points, just above Sokoto United and Mighty Jets FC in the standings as they continue their push in the Savannah Conference.

Doma United, popularly known as the Savannah Tigers, remain top of the Savannah Conference C table with 16 points from seven matches despite the defeat.

Attention now shifts to the reverse fixture, as City FC will travel to Gombe to face Doma United in the second stanza of the league at the Pantami Stadium on January 31, 2026.

Uche Dozie

Gombe United Football Club has indefinitely suspended Technical Adviser Abdullahi Tyabo Umar following a disappointing run in the ongoing Nigeria National League (NNL), Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The club’s management announced the decision after the Savannah Scorpions secured only 7 points from their first 6 matches, leaving them 6th in Conference D out of eight teams — a performance deemed below expectations for the side aiming for promotion back to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

In an immediate reshuffle of the technical team, Haruna Abdullahi (known as Alanpasay) has been appointed Interim Technical Adviser, while Sulaiman Ahmad Kalala takes charge as the new Chief Coach as the club looks to arrest its slide and reinvigorate its campaign.

In addition to the coaching changes, the club has moved decisively in the playing squad, terminating the contracts of eight players considered surplus to requirements in a bid to refresh the team and improve results.

The management’s statement emphasized that the measures aim to re-energize the squad and realign the club with its competitive targets for the season. Supporters will be watching closely as the new technical setup attempts to lift results in the crucial second half of the campaign.

Uche Dozie

Ranchers Bees head coach, Patrick Bassey, has resigned with immediate effect, blaming security risks, poor welfare, and management interference for his decision, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

In a letter dated 2 December 2025, Bassey said that despite the team’s strong start—sitting second on the league table—the working environment had become “unprofessional and intolerable.” He alleged that the club repeatedly instructed the team to embark on unsafe night travels and failed to address threats made against him by supporters.

The coach also criticised inadequate welfare provisions, including the absence of a team camp, lack of basic equipment, and poor feeding arrangements. He added that promised benefits, such as mobility, were not fulfilled, citing an instance where he received less feeding allowance than players during a match in Kebbi.

Bassey further accused the management of interfering in technical matters, including disruptions during dressing-room talks and substitution decisions.

He said the conditions made it impossible to continue in the role. Ranchers Bees have not yet issued an official response.

Uche Dozie

FC Basel suffered a 2–1 defeat to KRC Genk in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, November 27, 2025, despite a determined second-half surge led by Philip Otele, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Genk were clinical in the opening period, racing to a 2–0 advantage through goals from Hyeon-Gyu Oh and Konstantinos Karetsas, capitalizing on nearly every clear chance they created.

Without captain Xherdan Shaqiri, Basel still produced the game’s first real threat when Otele tested the Genk goalkeeper with a powerful long-range strike. But defensive vulnerabilities proved costly, and the Swiss side found themselves two goals down at the break.

Basel responded strongly in the second half, taking control of the tempo and pushing Genk deep into their own half. Their pressure finally paid off just before the hour mark when Bénie Traoré slipped a brilliant pass through to Otele, who guided the ball home with a composed finish to make it 2–1.

Momentum shifted, and Basel continued to create chances. Otele struck the post shortly after his goal, while Jeremy Agbonifo forced a superb stop from Hendrik Van Crombrugge late on. Even the introduction of Shaqiri could not turn the pressure into an equalizer, as Genk held firm through the final minutes.

In the end, Basel’s improved second-half performance went unrewarded. Otele’s goal offered hope, but the Swiss side once again came up short in European away action.

By Oluwadamilola Olaleye 

According to the Chief Operating Officer of the NNL, Mr. Danlami Ibrahim, feeder teams are essential for grooming young players, providing them with a platform to develop and refine their skills before progressing to the senior team. He noted that such systems also serve as sustainable talent pipelines and potential revenue sources for clubs.

Mr. Danlami referenced Article 6:9.1 of the league’s codified rules and regulations, which empowers the NNL to enforce the requirement for feeder teams as part of club licensing standards.

Clubs have been instructed to submit the details of their feeder-team players to the NNL Secretariat for documentation and verification purposes. The league body emphasized that compliance with this regulation is compulsory and forms a critical component of club registration requirements.

Clubs without feeder teams have been given a one-month deadline to comply or risk sanctions from the league.

The NNL believes that enforcing the feeder-team structure will encourage long-term investment in youth development and contribute significantly to the growth and stability of Nigerian football.

Uche Dozie

Doma United recorded a hard-fought 1–0 win against Mighty Jets at the New Jos Stadium, securing their first away victory of the season and boosting their position in the Northern Group C standings, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Former Mighty Jets midfielder Mathew Okpahe Ogonyi scored the decisive goal in the 44th minute, giving the visitors a narrow lead at halftime.

The hosts pushed aggressively in the second half, forcing Doma United to defend deep for extended periods. Despite sustained pressure, Doma remained disciplined, maintaining possession with composed passing sequences while resisting Mighty Jets’ attacking threats.

Goalkeeper Emmanuel Oche delivered an outstanding performance, pulling off several crucial saves to preserve the lead. The defensive unit also held firm, clearing dangerous balls and disrupting Mighty Jets’ advances throughout the half.

Head coach Najib Mabo, himself a former Mighty Jets handler, organised his side in a compact and effective structure that proved vital in securing all three points. The victory follows Doma United’s recent win over Kada Warriors and lifts them to second place in Group C with six points.

A sizeable contingent of Doma United supporters travelled from Gombe to rally behind the team, adding to the atmosphere and contributing to the morale of the visiting side.

The match ended Mighty Jets 0–1 Doma United.

Doma United will next host A.B.S. of Ilorin at the Pantami Stadium, Gombe.

Uche Dozie

In a circular signed by the NNL Chief Operating Officer, Danlami Alanana, the league confirmed it had received a formal notification from the Uyo-based club announcing its withdrawal from all league activities for the season.

Following the development, all scheduled fixtures involving Dakkada FC have been cancelled. The NNL added that an adjusted fixture list will be released soon, reflecting bye weeks where Dakkada was previously scheduled to play.

The league extended its regards to affected clubs and state football associations while assuring them of continued cooperation as the revised schedule is prepared.

Uche Dozie

FC Basira kicked off the Nigeria National League with an emphatic win over Mighty Jets, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

Abubakar Yusuf opened the score in the 6th minute for FC Basira and the first goal to usher in the 2025-2026 Nigeria National League season.

Yusuf doubled the lead on 39 minutes before Peter Eneji on the 46th minute, increasing the lead, which was the consolidation

Abubakar was crowned Man of the Match (MOTM) for his heroics, as FC Basira continued to make history.

The team also pocketed the sum of N56,000 from NNL partners Betpawa, courtesy of their impressive performance.

Uche Dozie

FC Basira of Lafia will today in Lafia take to the pitch against Mighty Jets FC Jos in the first match of the Nigeria National League 2025/26 Season — a fixture packed with intrigue and promise, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The two teams are set to launch the NNL season with this fixture after a venue change: originally, the opener was to be another match, but due to stadium suitability issues, the Basira Vs Jets game was selected. The ‘Most Important League’ begins fully on 16th Nov, but this opener has extra spotlight, as both clubs possess character and charisma. Local supporter- interest and atmosphere are expected to be high.

For FC Basira, playing at home will give them the advantage. Crowd support may be strong and could help them come out with energy early, and no doubt, they will want to start the campaign confidently—getting off the mark with a win will boost morale and set the tone for their season. For Mighty Jets, the away trip means they will need to show discipline and composure, especially in front of a partisan crowd.

As visitors, going on counterattacks or set pieces may be a good strategy if FC Basira start brightly. Starting the season with a result (win or draw) will be important to build momentum.

A tight game is foreseen. The NNL has announced that the winner of the opening match will claim a bonus of  #56,000.

Credit: NFF

Defender Femi Ladeinde has expressed his dissatisfaction with Sporting Lagos following his move Stormers FC of Abeokuta, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Left full back who can also play central back while speaking with AGT,  shared his thoughts on his time at Sporting Lagos, and looks ahead to his new adventure.

"I didn't like how I left Sporting Lagos because I i felt that I could give more to the club, but I'm thankful to God for the things that I've achieved at the club.", he said.

The "Terminator " described his move away from the Tech Boys side as leaving his "comfort zone", however Abeokuta is his hometown and it will be great playing there.

I love Sporting Lagos. after playing in Lagos for 3 seasons in NNL, I've decided to push myself a bit further by playing outside my comfort zone.

Abeokuta is my hometown, and playing in my state is a great delight for me."

Ladeinde hopes to do well at Stormers Sports Club and help the club achieve their goals.

Uche Dozie