Rivers United Extend Lead As Kano Pillars Thump Nasarawa United In NPFL Thriller

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The race for supremacy in the Nigeria Premier Football League intensified over the weekend as Rivers United consolidated their position at the top of the standings with a narrow but crucial victory.

Their 1–0 triumph against Rangers International allowed the Port Harcourt-based side to open up a five-point advantage at the summit of the league table.

Decisive Moment in Port Harcourt

The match remained tightly contested until the second half when Rivers United finally broke the deadlock.

Defender Bolu Sholumade delivered the decisive moment in the 53rd minute, rising highest to head home the only goal of the game.

The result provided a strong boost for the team managed by Finidi George as the league approached its mid-season break.

Kano Pillars’ Dominant Display

While Rivers United secured their victory, another dramatic performance unfolded in Kano.

Kano Pillars produced an impressive attacking performance to defeat Nasarawa United 3–0 at the Sani Abacha Stadium.

The home side had recently returned to their stadium after serving a suspension that kept them away for several matches.

Goals That Changed the Standings

Kano Pillars established control early in the match.

Mustapha Umar scored the opener in the 23rd minute.
Chiedozie Okorie added another goal after the break.
Jibrin Mustapha sealed the win with a third strike.

The convincing victory helped the club climb away from the bottom of the table and move into 18th place.

Struggles Continue for Plateau United and Kun Khalifat

Elsewhere in the league, results did little to ease the pressure on teams battling relegation.

Plateau United suffered another setback at the New Jos Stadium, losing 1–0 to Abia Warriors.

Meanwhile, Kun Khalifat FC also endured disappointment, falling 1–0 to Katsina United in Owerri.

Both clubs remained entrenched near the bottom of the standings.

Enyimba End Year With Convincing Victory

Enyimba FC wrapped up their final match of 2025 in style by beating Shooting Stars 3–0 in Aba.

Chinedu Ufere opened the scoring early in the contest before late goals from Edidiong Ezekiel and Chidera Michael completed the comfortable win.

Tornadoes Close In on Top Positions

Niger Tornadoes also enjoyed a positive outing, defeating Barau FC 2–0.

Goals from Abdulaziz Dalhatu and Rickson Mendos ensured victory, bringing the team closer to the league’s top contenders while pushing Barau FC back into relegation danger.

Other Matchday 19 Results

Several additional fixtures produced tight contests across the league:

Ikorodu City defeated Remo Stars 1–0
El‑Kanemi Warriors edged Bayelsa United 1–0
Warri Wolves played a 2–2 draw with Wikki Tourists
Bendel Insurance recorded a 2–0 victory over Kwara United

What Comes Next in the NPFL

League action will pause briefly before resuming on January 7, 2026, when teams return for Matchday 20 fixtures.

The mid-season transfer window will also open shortly, running from January 1 to January 30, providing clubs with an opportunity to strengthen their squads.

Commentary and Analysis

The latest round of NPFL fixtures reflects the unpredictable nature of the league. Rivers United’s consistency at the top demonstrates strong organization and defensive discipline under Finidi George.

At the same time, teams like Kano Pillars are showing signs of revival after early struggles, while clubs such as Plateau United and Kun Khalifat face increasing pressure to avoid relegation.

As the league heads into the second half of the season, squad adjustments during the transfer window could play a decisive role in shaping both the title race and the battle for survival.