NPFL

Enyimba thrashes Heartland in Oriental Derby, three away teams triumph

By Ekemini Samuel

Posted on September 9, 2024

Enyimba FC made a statement by winning the first Oriental derby this season against Heartland FC on a 3:1 score

Enyimba are off to a good start in the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season which kicked off with a bang, producing four home wins, three away victories, and two draws, with 18 goals scored across eight matches.

Enyimba FC made a statement by winning the first Oriental derby against Heartland FC, while Plateau United’s Doyeni Olawale scored the season’s first goal.

Enyimba secured a crucial win over Heartland FC

Enyimba’s 3-1 victory over Heartland FC showcased their dominance in the Oriental derby.

Despite Heartland taking the lead through Lawal Suraju in the 54th minute, Enyimba responded with three quick goals from substitute Ifeanyi Ihemekwele and a brace from Clinton Jepheta.

Away teams shone bright, with Sunshine Stars securing a resounding 3-0 win over Bayelsa United in Ijebu.

Seidu Salisu, Promise Awosanmi, and Stephen Chukwude scored for Kennedy Boboye’s side.

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Remo Stars also won 2-0 against Abia Warriors, with Ismail Sodiq and Jide Fatokun finding the net. Niger Tornadoes shocked Kwara United with a 2-1 victory, while Kano Pillars handed newcomers Ikorodu City a 3-0 defeat.

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Remo Stars thrashed new comers ikorodu City

The only goalless match was between Bendel Insurance and Rivers United, with Rivers United’s Bamidele Adeniyi receiving the season’s first red card in the 53rd minute.

Shooting Stars rescued a point with a late equalizer from Samuel Ayanrinde, canceling out Anas Yusuf’s 63rd-minute penalty for Nasarawa United.

The NPFL season is off to an exciting start, with teams showcasing their skills and determination. As the season unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling matches and surprises.

Heartland FC will be hoping to shake off the dust of this disappointing start to the season, regroup and get the ball kicking in order to remain in the top flight competition next season.

Heartland FC, led by Nigeria’s ex Golden Eaglets head coach Emmanuel Amunike replaced Beyond Limits this season in the NPFL.