Matchday 9 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) produced drama and upsets across the country, with league leaders Nasarawa United suffering a rare defeat in Lagos and Enyimba stunned at home by Warri Wolves.
Despite falling 2–0 to Ikorodu City, Nasarawa United maintained their place at the summit of the table with 19 points — four points clear of second-placed Shooting Stars.
Chidera Oparaocha opened scoring for the Lagos-based side in the 14th minute to give the home team an early advantage, before Joseph Arumala doubled the lead in the 68th minute to seal the victory at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.
The defeat ended Nasarawa’s five-match unbeaten run, but the Solid Miners remain in control of the title race after a strong start to the season.
For Ikorodu City, the win extends their impressive home record, making it 22 straight matches without defeat at their ground.
Elsewhere, Enyimba were left shell-shocked in Aba as Warri Wolves secured a 2–1 win over the People’s Elephants.
The visitors opened scoring early before Enyimba equalised through Edidiong Ezekiel, but Tejiri Emonena’s 67th-minute goal handed the Delta side all three points, marking Enyimba’s second consecutive home loss.
In Ibadan, Shooting Stars continued their fine form with a 2–0 victory over Abia Warriors, keeping pressure on Nasarawa at the top with 15 points.
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Across other centres, Niger Tornadoes were the standout performers of the weekend, thrashing Plateau United 4–0 in Minna thanks to a hat-trick from Abdulaziz Dalhatu.
As the league table tightens, Nasarawa United lead with 19 points, followed by Shooting Stars (15), Abia Warriors (15), and Niger Tornadoes (14).
Ikorodu City and Warri Wolves also sit within striking distance in the top six, while the battle at the bottom remains fierce with Bendel Insurance still struggling to find form.
With Matchday 10 approaching, all eyes will be on whether Nasarawa can bounce back from their setback and whether Ikorodu City can continue their remarkable run in front of their home fans.