NPFL matchday 38 Round up

It is a wrap. Matchday 38 signified the end of the 2020/2021 Nigeria Professional League season. For some teams, it was a day they salvaged their season, while for some, it was a bad day at the office.

Amidst the controversy brewing between the League Management Company and the Nigeria Football Federation that could cause major alterations to the present League standings, this is a wrap up of the results and the table as it stands.

Enyimba pulled up heroics at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo as they went away to Dakkada FC to bag a 3-1 win.

Two goals from star man Anayo Iwuala and one from Samad Kadiri were enough to make Musa Bashiru’s 29th-minute goal for Dakkada just a consolation for the home side.

The win took them to second place on the table and in a position to play the CAF Champions League qualifiers.

The season’s surprise package, Kwara United were in high spirits as they achieved continental football after their 3-0 home win against Katsina United.

A first-half goal from Ayobami Mutiu was buttressed by second-half goals from Michael Ohanu and Jude Steven. The Afonja Warriors will now play the Confederations Cup qualifiers next season.

It was heartbreak for Kano Pillars, Nasarawa United and Rivers United as they all lost away to Heartland, Abia Warriors and Sunshine Stars, respectively.

Their final day losses mean that all three clubs will not play continental football next season.

Nigeria’s representatives in the CAF Champions League are Akwa United and Enyimba FC, while Kwara United will represent in the Confederations Cup.

In the relegation zone, it was a major escape for Sunshine Stars as they escaped relegation after going on an 18-game winless streak.

Coach Deji Ayeni managed to change the fortunes of the side after he joined in June. Sunshine Stars beat Rivers United 1-0 to secure a place in the NPFL next season.

Ejike Uzoenyi was the saviour for the third time in a row as his fifth-minute goal was enough to see the Akure Gunners through.

A 2-0 win for Wikki Tourists against Adamawa United was enough to keep them afloat in the NPFL. Two first-half goals from Hassan Musa and Nazifi Yahaya were enough to get the Bauchi side the win.

The relegated teams are Jigawa Golden Stars, Warri Wolves, Ifeanyi Ubah FC and Adamawa United.