Matchday 16 of the Nigeria Premier Football League produced late goals, narrow victories and intense contests across multiple centres on Sunday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports
In Umuahia, Abia Warriors snatched a point at the death in their 1–1 draw with Rivers United. The visitors took the lead in the 86th minute through Maclyn Biokpo, but Suraju Lawal struck a dramatic 90+4th-minute equaliser to ensure honours were even.
Kwara United secured one of the day’s convincing wins with a 2–0 victory over Niger Tornadoes in Ilorin. Bright Babatunde opened the scoring in the 15th minute before a 37th-minute own goal by Abba Khalid doubled the hosts’ advantage.
In Jos, Plateau United edged Warri Wolves 1–0 courtesy of a 19th-minute own goal by Gift David. The match, however, ended on a tense note as both teams had a player sent off in the 86th minute — Vincent Temitope of Plateau and Gift David of Wolves.
Remo Stars claimed a crucial 2–1 win over Enyimba in Abeokuta. Former Enyimba striker Victor Mbaoma proved decisive with a brace in the 3rd and 45th minutes, while Edidiong Ezekiel momentarily levelled for the visitors in the 32nd minute.
In Kano, legendary midfielder Rabiu Ali inspired Kano Pillars to a 2–1 victory over Kun Khalifat. Ali scored in the 19th minute and added a second from the penalty spot in the 38th, before Ebuka Nwokorie pulled one back for the visitors.
Two matches ended goalless: Wikki Tourists were held 0–0 by Ikorodu City in Bauchi, while El-Kanemi Warriors and Barau FC also failed to find the net in Maiduguri.
The results see several teams solidify their positions as the league enters its crucial phase, with battles intensifying at both ends of the table.
Uche Dozie