Rangers, Rivers triumph; 3SC survive late scare, Kwara earn crucial draw as Kun Khalifat keep relegation fight alive

Rangers, Rivers triumph; 3SC survive late scare, Kwara earn crucial draw as Kun Khalifat keep relegation fight alive

The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League has descended into a gripping, high-stakes finale, with tension surging across both ends of the table. With just two matches remaining, the title race and relegation battle remain wide open, delivering one of the most dramatic run-ins in recent history.

On Saturday, Rangers International strengthened their title charge with a composed away win over Bayelsa United in Yenagoa. Goals from Chidiebere Nwobodo and veteran forward Godwin Obaje sealed a result that deepens Bayelsa’s troubles. In Port Harcourt, Rivers United overcame a stubborn Abia Warriors side, turning on the style in the second half. Wasiu Falolu, Timothy Zachariah and Bello Babatunde found the net to keep Rivers firmly in contention, though still trailing Rangers as the race heads into a decisive Matchday 37.

In Ibadan, Shooting Stars SC endured a nerve-racking contest against Nasarawa United. Two early goals from Lucky Emmanuel had settled nerves, but a spirited Nasarawa comeback drew the game level before Qamar Adegoke struck in the 77th minute to secure a vital victory and maintain Shooting Stars’ push for continental qualification.

Elsewhere, Barau FC boosted their survival hopes with an emphatic 3-0 win over El-Kanemi Warriors in Kano, while in Aba, Enyimba FC edged past Remo Stars in a tightly contested encounter that leaves the visitors in deep relegation trouble.

In Owerri, Kun Khalifat FC refused to surrender their top-flight status without a fight. After conceding late against Kano Pillars, they struck deep into stoppage time through Oghenetega Ebetomame to snatch a dramatic win and ignite hope in their survival bid. In Benin City, the clash between Bendel Insurance and Katsina United was abandoned due to a waterlogged pitch and will resume with the score at 0-0.

Warri Wolves also boosted their chances of survival with a narrow win over Plateau United, while Kwara United showed resilience on the road, battling to a crucial draw against Niger Tornadoes after a fiercely contested encounter.

With everything still to play for, the NPFL season races toward a dramatic conclusion — where every goal, every point, and every moment could define glory or heartbreak.