Enyimba FC took a significant step towards the top of the NPFL standings with a commanding 4-1 victory over Rivers United in the StarTimes-NPFL MatchDay 34 fixture held in Aba.
Chijioke Mbaoma’s impressive performance, netting twice, propelled the ‘Peoples Elephants’ to within touching distance of league leaders Enugu Rangers, who dropped points in Lagos.
The victory catapulted Enyimba to 59 points, just two behind Rangers, who were held to a goalless draw by NPFL debutants Sporting FC.
The match saw Rivers United initially take the lead through Andy Okpe in the 14th minute.
However, Mbaoma’s equalizer in the 38th minute set the stage for Enyimba’s dominance. He added another goal eight minutes into the second half, solidifying Enyimba’s control of the game.
The onslaught continued with Elijah Akani also scoring twice, first in the 66th minute and again in the 76th minute, completing the rout of Rivers United.
Enyimba’s commanding performance has set them up as strong contenders for the title, chasing down Enugu Rangers as the season nears its climax.
In other NPFL action, Bayelsa United secured a crucial 3-2 victory against Plateau United at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.
Goals from Magbisa Wisdom and Garanda Tekena before the break, and a third by Bassey John in the 59th minute, ensured Bayelsa’s victory despite a late rally from Plateau United.
Sunshine Stars achieved the only away win of the day, defeating Gombe United 2-0 at the Pantami Stadium.
Promise Awosanmi and Lucky Nwafor’s first-half goals sealed the victory for the ‘Akure Gunners’.
Elsewhere, Kwara United held Niger Tornadoes to a goalless draw at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna, while 3SC thrashed Abia Warriors 4-0 at home.
Goals from Alex Aghahowa, Malomo Taofeek, Christian Pyagbara, and Adam Mustapha secured the comprehensive win for 3SC.
The StarTimes-NPFL week 34 matches will conclude today in Uyo, where struggling sides Akwa United and Heartland clash in a crucial tie.
A victory for Akwa United, who stunned Lobi Stars 2-1 in week 33, would earn them 43 points and significantly bolster their chances of avoiding relegation.
As the season draws to a close, every point matters, and Enyimba’s emphatic win has put them in prime position to challenge for the NPFL title, keeping fans and analysts eagerly watching the final matches unfold.
