- Nasarawa United’s hat trick from Anas Yusuf wasn’t enough to secure victory
- Sodiq Ismail and Franck Mawuena helped Remo Stars maintain their unbeaten streak
- Remo Stars are the only NPFL team with a perfect record after three games
The third matchday of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) delivered a spectacle of goals, tactical brilliance, and tight encounters.
Away victories defined the weekend as Rivers United, Niger Tornadoes, and Remo Stars continued to show their dominance in the league. From Finidi George’s tactical finesse to Sodiq Ismail’s clinical strike for Remo Stars, here’s a breakdown of each match that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Matchday three results:
Lobi Stars 0-1 Rivers United
Rivers United secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Lobi Stars, with Kabir Abdullahi netting the only goal of the game in the 79th minute. The tension-filled encounter at Lafia City Stadium marked Rivers United’s first away win of the season, extending their unbeaten run to three matches. Despite the result, Rivers United’s technical manager, Finidi George, downplayed the result, stating that it was “nothing” compared to the challenges ahead. "Every victory, we will take it. It’s just a game," he noted, emphasising the need to focus on their next game against NPFL champions, Enyimba FC.
Nasarawa United 3-4 El-Kanemi Warriors
Aliyu Zubairu’s El-Kanemi Warriors pulled off a stunning 4-3 comeback against Nasarawa United. The game, filled with twists and turns, saw Nasarawa United take an early lead through an impressive hat trick from Anas Yusuf. However, the Warriors, prepared by intense pre-match training, fought back valiantly to snatch the win. Zubairu praised his team's preparation, “We prepared well for them, and we are glad we got a win,” but admitted Nasarawa United were a formidable side. Despite their loss, Nasarawa’s coach, Kabiru Dogo, took responsibility and expressed his disappointment in the final result.
Plateau United 1-2 Niger Tornadoes
Niger Tornadoes extended their unbeaten run in the NPFL with a 2-1 victory over Plateau United, securing their second consecutive away win. Coach Majin Mohammed credited a well-executed strategy for the triumph, revealing that the team had meticulously planned for the game. “Our strategy worked perfectly. The players executed their roles exceptionally well,” he said. A solid defensive display saw the Tornadoes hold off Plateau’s attacking threats. Mohammed also referenced last season’s loss to Plateau, which motivated his players to fight back this season.
Heartland 0-0 Katsina United
Heartland and Katsina United played out a 0-0 draw in Owerri, with both sides missing clear chances to win the match. Katsina United was content with the result, labelling it “a valuable point secured away from home.”
The stalemate saw Katsina garner four points from their first three games of the season, while Heartland missed out on the opportunity to claim their first win. Both teams will look to improve their attacking performances in their upcoming fixtures.
Kano Pillars 0-2 Remo Stars
Remo Stars continued their dominant form with a 2-0 away win over Kano Pillars, making them the only team with a perfect record after three matches. Goals from Sodiq Ismail and Franck Mawuena secured the victory, keeping Remo top of the NPFL standings.
With no goals conceded so far this season, Remo Stars have become a formidable defensive unit. Their clean sheet against Pillars follows earlier shutouts against Abia Warriors and Sunshine Stars.
Kwara United 0-0 Ikorodu City
In Ilorin, Kwara United and Ikorodu City played out a goalless draw, with Ikorodu head coach Bright Ozebagbe labelling it a “positive result” for his team. “We had to play our game and hope for the best,” he said, stating the team's adaptability in the Premier League. The Oga Boys will now shift focus to their rescheduled fixture against Rangers.
NPFL opener between Enugu Rangers, El Kanemi Warriors ends in draw
Previously, TheRadar reported that Enugu Rangers were held to a frustrating goalless draw by El Kanemi Warriors in their Nigeria Premier Football League opener at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Saturday.
Despite their recent triumph as league champions just 68 days prior, the Flying Antelopes struggled to break down a resilient El Kanemi side, who recently won the President Federation Cup.
