Rivers United Maintain NPFL Lead With Victory Over Bendel Insurance As Rangers Hammer Remo Stars

Nigeria Premier Football League leaders Rivers United strengthened their hold at the top of the table after defeating Bendel Insurance 3-1 on Sunday at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt.

The first half ended without a goal, but the hosts raised the tempo after the break. Former league top scorer Chijioke Mbaoma opened the scoring in the 53rd minute, heading in a well-delivered corner from Iyowuna Douglas.

Douglas again played a key role late in the game, setting up Wisdom Samuel in the 81st minute for Rivers United’s second goal.

Bendel Insurance pulled one back in the 89th minute to create a brief moment of tension, but Samson Obi sealed the victory for the hosts with a late strike to make it 3-1.

The win keeps Rivers United two points clear at the summit, although their closest rivals, Enugu Rangers, still have two matches in hand.

In Enugu, Rangers delivered an impressive performance, thrashing defending champions Remo Stars 4-1. Kenneth Igboke gave the hosts an early lead in the fourth minute, while Chidozie Iwundu doubled the advantage just four minutes later.

Remo Stars responded before halftime through Franck Mawuena, but Rangers dominated the second half. Wisdom Ebirim added a third goal in the 62nd minute before Igboke grabbed his second in stoppage time to cap a commanding display.

The defeat leaves Remo Stars rooted to the bottom of the table with 30 points from 29 matches after suffering their 17th loss of the season.

Elsewhere, nine-time champions Enyimba FC slipped into the relegation zone following a 2-1 defeat to Warri Wolves.

In Kano, a lone goal from Ahmed Musa secured a narrow 1-0 derby victory for Kano Pillars against Barau FC, moving the former champions two points clear of the drop zone.

NPFL Matchday 29 Results: