Ikorodu City further cemented their status as title favorites by claiming a historic 1-0 away victory against Enyimba at the Enyimba International Stadium on Sunday. Joseph Arumala delivered the winning blow in the 29th minute, finding the net with a clinical finish that the visitors successfully defended throughout a high-pressure second half. This result propels the “Oga Boys” to 44 points from 26 fixtures, allowing them to maintain their narrow advantage at the top of the Nigeria Premier Football League standings and increase the distance between themselves and the chasing pack.
While the league leaders celebrated in Aba, Shooting Stars reignited their campaign for a CAF Confederation Cup berth with a thrilling 4-2 triumph over Warri Wolves. Playing at their adopted home in Abeokuta, the Ibadan-based side overcame an early deficit after Peter Ita opened the scoring for the visitors. Sodiq Ibrahim quickly restored parity before Lucky Emmanuel and Desmond Ojietefian established a commanding halftime lead. Stephen Amos effectively sealed the win in the second period, ensuring that the Oluyole Warriors move to 38 points and stay within striking distance of the top four.
Enugu Rangers also made a significant move in the title race, climbing into second place with 43 points after a routine 2-0 victory against Wikki Tourists. The Flying Antelopes took control of the match early at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, with Wisdom Ebirim and veteran striker Godwin Obaje both scoring within the first 35 minutes of play. This victory allowed Rangers to leapfrog Rivers United, who now sit in third place with 41 points, though the Port Harcourt side holds five games in hand due to their recent continental engagements.
The weekend’s results have intensified the battle at both ends of the table as the season enters its final stretch. Enyimba’s home loss leaves the nine-time champions struggling in 14th place, while Warri Wolves drop to 11th following their defensive collapse in Abeokuta. Ikorodu City’s ability to grind out a result in one of the league’s most difficult venues suggests a growing maturity in the squad as they prepare to host Bayelsa United in their next fixture. Meanwhile, Shooting Stars’ offensive resurgence under coach Nurudeen Aweroro signals a dangerous threat to the established order in the coming weeks.
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