The third round of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL season unfolded with several surprising outcomes, making it a memorable weekend for fans and teams alike. Here are the key takeaways from Matchday 3.
Remo Stars Continue Their Perfect Run Remo Stars achieved a significant 2-0 victory over Kano Pillars, extending their flawless start to the season. With five goals scored and none conceded, Remo Stars remain at the top of the league table and have established themselves as early favourites for the title.
First Hattrick of the Season Yusuf Anas scored the first Hattrick of the season in a thrilling 4-3 win for Elkanemi Warriors over Nasarawa United. Despite Nasarawa’s early two goal lead, Elkanemi staged an incredible comeback to secure the away win.
A Weekend of Away Wins Four teams Rivers United, Elkanemi Warriors, Remo Stars, and Niger Tornadoes—secured victories away from home. This impressive display by visiting teams marked Matchday 3 as a standout round.
No Home Wins Unusually, none of the home teams managed to secure a win. All seven home sides either lost or drew their matches, a rare occurrence in recent NPFL history.
Ikorodu City’s First Point Newcomers Ikorodu City FC, after suffering a loss in their debut, secured their first NPFL point with a goalless draw against Kwara United. This result is a positive sign for the Lagos based side ahead of their upcoming home match against reigning champions, Enugu Rangers.
Editorial
Matchday 3 of the NPFL provides a striking narrative of unpredictability and excitement, showcasing the competitive nature of the league. While it is still early in the season, certain trends are beginning to emerge. The dominance of Remo Stars, who continue to perform impeccably, points to their growing status as a formidable force in Nigerian football. Their ability to secure wins both at home and away, without conceding goals, sets them apart from the rest.
Equally noteworthy is the resurgence of Elkanemi Warriors, who displayed extraordinary resilience in their comeback victory over Nasarawa United. The drama of the match, marked by Yusuf Anas’ hattrick, serves as a reminder of the thrilling quality of football on display in the NPFL. It’s these moments that keep fans on the edge of their seats, fostering a deep connection between the teams and their supporters.
The fact that no home teams won this weekend is a testament to the league’s evolving dynamics. It suggests a levelling of the playing field, where home advantage is no longer a guarantee of success. This shift could signal a more balanced and unpredictable season, where each match presents new possibilities.
Ikorodu City FC’s first ever NPFL point is a symbolic moment, reflecting the team’s potential to make an impact despite their newcomer status. Their upcoming clash with Enugu Rangers will be a true test of their progress, but the goalless draw against Kwara United indicates that they are on the right path.
As we move forward, we should expect more surprises and standout performances. The competitive nature of the NPFL is a breath of fresh air in the football world, and no team can be underestimated.
Did You Know?
- Remo Stars are one of the youngest teams in the NPFL, having been founded in 2010.
- Kano Pillars is one of the oldest and most successful football clubs in Nigeria, established in 1990.
- The NPFL was rebranded in 2013, transitioning from the Nigerian Premier League to the Nigeria Premier Football League.
- Yusuf Anas’ hattrick is the first to be scored by an Elkanemi Warriors player in five years.
- Rivers United, one of the teams that secured an away win on Matchday 3, was formed in 2016 following the merger of Dolphins FC and Sharks FC.
