The Nigeria Professional Football League season ended on Sunday with four teams officially relegated to the second-tier division, three of which are household name in the country, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The story of MFM FC's relegation made the rounds weeks back after they failed to pickup themselves from their poor and abysmal start to the league season.
Kano Pillars relegation was confirmed after their defeat to Nasarawa United on the matchday 37 although they had a glimpse of hope, thinking the NFF appeal committee will overturn the decision to deduct 3 points from their points after they repeatedly breached the NPFL rules book.
However, the decision was reaffirmed and their slot in the NNL was validated during the week as their 23 years consecutive stay in the topflight ended.
Heartland FC bid to escape suffered a big setback on matchday 37 as well when they lost 2-1 to Niger Tornadoes. Although they had a chance to beat the drop in the final matchday but it was unrealistic one as their fate was no longer in their hands.
Kastina United lost 2-0 to Wikki Tourist on the final matchday to complete the teams that will go on relegation.
Kastina United like other teams bidding to beat the drop needed to win their match away in Bauchi to remain in the topflight but ended up losing to their host.
With the season now completed, MFM FC of Lagos, Heartland FC of Owerri, Kastina United of Kastina and Kano Pillars of Kano have been officially relegated and except there is a back door entry for any of them via buying of slot from the newly promoted teams, they will all ply their trade in the Nigeria National League next season.
By Oluwayemi Omolagba