NPFL Matchday Ten: Rivers United suffer first defeat, Remo Stars climb to the top
Matchday Ten of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) saw significant upsets and a shift at the top of the table on Sunday, November 4, 2024.
Rivers United, led by former Super Eagles coach Finidi George, faced their first defeat of the season, falling 2-0 to newly promoted Ikorodu City at Onikan Stadium in Lagos.
Ikorodu City Stuns Rivers United
Rivers United’s nine-game unbeaten streak came to an end as Ikorodu City, driven by a robust second-half performance, secured a 2-0 victory. Ayomide Cole opened the scoring for Ikorodu with a stunning strike, igniting celebrations among the home crowd. Rivio Ayemwenre added a second, solidifying Ikorodu’s win and pushing Rivers United down to second in the league standings.
Finidi George was a frustrated figure on the touchline, expressing his discontent with several controversial officiating decisions that he felt disrupted his team’s rhythm. Despite their late efforts, Rivers United was unable to break through Ikorodu’s disciplined defence, led by their influential captain, Waliu.
Other Matchday Ten Results
The action continued across the NPFL with exciting outcomes in other matches:
- El Kanemi Warriors edged out Katsina United with a narrow 1-0 victory in Maiduguri.
- Heartland FC claimed a solid 2-0 away win over Abia Warriors, further boosting their position.
- Akwa United defeated Kwara United 2-1 in a closely contested encounter, securing all three points in Uyo.
- Bayelsa United and Enyimba played out a 1-1 draw in Yenagoa, sharing the points after a tight game.
- Kano Pillars continued their impressive form at home with a 2-1 win over Plateau United.
- Niger Tornadoes kept their momentum with a 2-0 victory over Shooting Stars, enhancing their standing in the league.
- Rangers International saw off Nasarawa United with a comfortable 2-0 win.
- Remo Stars climbed to the top of the NPFL table after a hard-fought 1-0 win over Lobi Stars in Ikenne.
- Bendel Insurance stunned Sunshine Stars with a 2-1 away win, adding another three points to their campaign.
