Rivers United finally snapped their five-game winless run with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Lobi Stars in Port Harcourt, thanks to a late header from Timothy Zechariah in the 88th minute.
The crucial win brings much-needed relief to head coach Finidi George, as his team aims to get back into the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) title race.
Despite being bottom of the table, Lobi Stars put up a resilient fight before Zechariah’s late goal sealed all three points for Rivers United.
With this win, Rivers now sit third in the standings with 38 points from 23 matches, trailing league leaders Remo Stars by 10 points.
Rivers United’s Struggles Before the Breakthrough
Before their clash with Lobi Stars, Rivers United had not won a match since their last victory against Kwara United in December. Their three draws and two losses had significantly hurt their title ambitions.
Elsewhere in the NPFL
- Akwa United Return to Winning Ways
Akwa United edged out Enyimba FC 2-1 in a tightly contested match in Uyo. Ogunleye Olayemi and Uche Sabastine were on target for the Promise Keepers, while Issah Mohammed netted Enyimba’s consolation goal. Despite the win, Akwa United remain in the relegation zone with 23 points from 23 games.
- Abia Warriors Thrash Sunshine Stars
Abia Warriors cruised to a 3-0 victory over Sunshine Stars at the Umuahia Township Stadium. An own goal by Chidozie Iwundu set the tone for the win before Antoine Ijoma and Samuel Ogunjimi added their names to the scoresheet. The loss pushes Sunshine Stars into the relegation zone, while Abia Warriors climb to fourth place.
- Ikorodu City Stuns Kwara United
Newcomers Ikorodu City FC pulled off a comeback victory against Kwara United, winning 2-1 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos. Junior Aimufua gave Kwara United an early lead within two minutes, but Toyeeb Ajeyigbe quickly equalized five minutes later. The winning goal came from Shola Adelani in the 64th minute, assisted by Austin Harrison.
- Niger Tornadoes and Plateau United Share Points
Niger Tornadoes and Plateau United played out a 1-1 draw, while defending champions Rangers International held Bayelsa United to a goalless stalemate in Yenagoa.
NPFL Title Race Heats Up
With Rivers United back to winning ways and Akwa United fighting for survival, the NPFL table remains highly competitive. All eyes are now on the title contenders as the season progresses.
Can Rivers United close the gap on Remo Stars in the title race? Drop your thoughts in the comments and stay updated with NIGPOST!
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