NPFL Drama: Plateau United Triumph, Abia Warriors Take Big Step Continental

Matchday 33 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) delivered thrilling results on Monday, April 6, as Plateau United dominated Ikorodu City 4-1, while Abia Warriors edged Bayelsa United 1-0, intensifying the battle for continental qualification.

Plateau United, who were compelled to host matches in Lafia due to security concerns in Jos, showcased a commanding performance to relieve mounting pressure on the team. The first half remained goalless, but Kazeem Adeyanju opened the scoring five minutes into the second half. Ossy Martins doubled the lead in the 72nd minute, asserting Plateau’s control over the game. Ikorodu City responded through Moses Ali in the 80th minute, briefly igniting hope, but Plateau quickly reasserted dominance with Martins netting his second in the 88th minute and Victor Dawa adding a stoppage-time fourth goal.

The victory lifts Plateau United to eighth place with 46 points, while Ikorodu City remain third, their title ambitions dented as the race tightens.

In Aba, Abia Warriors secured a crucial 1-0 win over Bayelsa United, thanks to Chukwuemeka Obioma’s 58th-minute strike. The goal takes Obioma to 11 league goals, tying him with Godwin Obaje of Rangers International and Joseph Arumala of Ikorodu City at the top of the scoring chart. The win moves Abia Warriors to fourth place with 52 points, level with Ikorodu City and three behind the league leaders with five matches remaining. Bayelsa United remain 16th on 40 points, intensifying concerns over relegation.

Looking ahead, Plateau United will face Rivers United, Ikorodu City will host Kano Pillars, Abia Warriors travel to meet Bendel Insurance, and Bayelsa United take on Wikki Tourists in the next round of fixtures.

According to league reports, these results have further intensified the race for continental qualification and heightened the drama in the relegation battle as the season approaches its climax.