Bendel Insurance ended Rivers United’s unbeaten run in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) this season with a dramatic 2-1 victory in Benin City on Sunday.
Jonathan James scored the winning goal in stoppage time after Freeman Wuchirwe had put the hosts ahead three minutes into the second half. Chijioke Mbaoma equalised for Rivers United with 17 minutes remaining, but James’ late strike handed the Benin Arsenal all three points.
In Lagos, Ikorodu City fought back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Shooting Stars at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan.
Taofeek Otaniyi and Desmond Ojietefian gave Shooting Stars a 2-0 lead before Donald Obiajulu scored twice to rescue a point for the hosts.
Niger Tornadoes secured the only away win of the day, defeating Abia Warriors 1-0 in Aba. Wasiu Jimoh scored the decisive goal four minutes before the hour mark.
At the Lafia City Stadium, Nasarawa United defeated Enyimba 1-0, with Jofrank Istifanus scoring the only goal in the 23rd minute.
Barau FC and Kwara United shared the points in a 1-1 draw in Kano. Anthony Sunday gave Barau FC the lead five minutes before half-time, but Goodluck Ogbolu equalised for Kwara United three minutes after the hour mark.
Warri Wolves and Kano Pillars played out a goalless draw in Ozoro, while Kun Khalifat defeated Inter Lagos 1-0 to complete Sunday’s fixtures.
NPFL Matchday Results
– Bendel Insurance 2-1 Rivers United
– Barau FC 1-1 Kwara United
– Abia Warriors 0-1 Niger Tornadoes
– Ikorodu City 2-2 Shooting Stars
– Nasarawa United 1-0 Enyimba
– Warri Wolves 0-0 Kano Pillars
– Kun Khalifat 1-0 Inter Lagos
