It was a weekend of shocks, surprises, and standout performances throughout Matchday 9 of the Nigeria Premier Soccer League (NPFL), as newly promoted sides stole the highlight whereas a number of the league’s conventional giants faltered.
Promoted Groups Shine, Conventional Giants Falter
The newly promoted trio of Kun Khalifat FC, Warri Wolves, and Barau FC all recorded spectacular victories over established NPFL sides.
In Yenagoa, Kun Khalifat surprised Bayelsa United 2–1, courtesy of objectives from Uche Moses and Michael Akano, whereas Jawad Mustapha’s penalty proved solely a comfort for the hosts.
In Aba, Warri Wolves pulled off one other shock consequence, defeating Enyimba Worldwide 2–1. A Mohammed Hussaini personal purpose and Tejiri Emonena’s 67th-minute strike gave the guests management earlier than Edidiong Ezekiel decreased the deficit late on.
In the meantime, Barau FC compounded Kano Pillars’ woes with a 2–1 win. Regardless of Rabiu Ali placing Pillars forward, second-half objectives from Yahaya Ibrahim and Stanley Oganbor sealed the comeback victory for the hosts.
Rivers United, Remo Stars Battle on the Continent
It was a disappointing weekend for Nigeria’s continental representatives as each Rivers United and Remo Stars suffered setbacks of their CAF inter-club engagements.
Rivers United fell 1–0 away to Black Bullet in Maputo, whereas Remo Stars have been humbled 5–1 at dwelling by South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns in Abeokuta.
Each groups now face uphill duties of their respective return legs as they chase a long-awaited spot within the CAF Champions League group stage — a feat no Nigerian membership has achieved prior to now 5 years.
Abdulaziz Dalhatu Nets First Hat-Trick of the Season
Niger Tornadoes ahead Abdulaziz Dalhatu etched his title into NPFL historical past with the primary hat-trick of the 2025/2026 marketing campaign. His treble impressed Tornadoes to a commanding 4–0 victory over Plateau United, with Terdoo Shimagande including a late fourth.
Dalhatu’s scientific show earns him a well-deserved nod as NPFL Participant of the Week.
Capturing Stars Prolong Unbeaten Run
Capturing Stars (3SC) continued their spectacular kind with a 2–0 win over Abia Warriors in Ibadan. Targets from Ayobami Junior and Qamar Adegoke stretched their unbeaten run to 5 matches.
Beneath the steerage of Coach Nurudeen Aweroro, who joined from Ikorodu Metropolis FC, the Oluyole Warriors seem revitalized and poised to mount a real title problem after overcoming early-season teething points.
Kano Pillars Droop Technical Crew
Following a poor run of outcomes capped by defeat to Barau FC, Kano Pillars administration has suspended Technical Adviser Ogenyi Evans and Chief Coach Ahmed Garba Yaro Yaro with speedy impact.
The choice underscores the membership’s rising frustration, because the Sai Masu Gida face mounting strain to show their season round and keep away from a possible relegation battle.
As Matchday 9 concludes, the NPFL title race stays broad open a mix of unpredictability, rising stars, and shifting fortunes promising much more drama forward of Matchday 10.
