NPFL Matchday 36: Key highlights and results

By Asuquo

Posted on June 13, 2024

Akwa United players celebrating IN THE NPFL

The 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season is nearing its climax, with matchday 36 games played on Wednesday, June 12, across nine venues. The battles for top spots and to avoid relegation intensified as teams sought crucial points.

Title Race Drama

Rangers International of Enugu and Enyimba FC both stumbled in the title race, while Remo Stars secured a crucial win, putting them just two points behind the table leaders.

Remo Stars triumphed 4-1 over Heartland FC, propelling them into second place and confirming relegation for Heartland FC.
In Aba, Enyimba FC were held to a 1-1 draw by Bayelsa United, losing further ground in their bid to retain the NPFL title.
Shooting Stars defeated Rangers International 1-0 in Ibadan, a significant setback for Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu’s team.

Relegation Battle

At the lower end of the table, several teams fought to avoid relegation with mixed results:

Abia Warriors FC secured an important 3-1 away victory against Gombe United, easing their relegation fears.
Akwa United FC also won 3-1 over Katsina United in Uyo, helping them move away from the relegation zone.

Other Notable Results

Bendel Insurance narrowly defeated Rivers United 2-1.
Kwara United recorded a 2-0 victory over Kano Pillars.
Niger Tornadoes edged out Lobi Stars 3-2 in a closely contested match.
Sporting Lagos fell 1-2 to Plateau United.

Full Matchday 36 Results

Gombe United 1-3 Abia Warriors
Akwa United 3-1 Katsina United
Bendel Insurance 2-1 Rivers United
Enyimba 1-1 Bayelsa United
Kwara United 2-0 Kano Pillars
Niger Tornadoes 3-2 Lobi Stars
Remo Stars 4-1 Heartland
Sporting Lagos 1-2 Plateau United
Shooting Stars 1-0 Rangers

As the NPFL season draws to a close, the final matchdays promise more excitement and decisive moments in the battle for the title and the fight to avoid relegation.