Rivers United continued their impressive start to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, securing a narrow 1-0 win over Niger Tornadoes on Matchday 8, extending their unbeaten run to eight matches. Under the guidance of head coach Finidi George, the Port Harcourt-based side earned a crucial three points on the road to solidify their position at the top of the league standings.
The decisive moment in the match came shortly after the interval, as Seiyefa Jackson found the back of the net in the 47th minute.
Jackson’s goal, which came from a well-executed set piece, proved enough to hand Rivers United the win in a tightly contested encounter.
The victory lifts Rivers United to 19 points, two clear of their closest rivals, Remo Stars, at the summit of the table.
Speaking after the game, Finidi George praised his side’s resilience and ability to grind out results, particularly in challenging away fixtures like the one in Minna.
It was a hard-fought win, and the boys showed great character.
We knew it wasn’t going to be easy, but we stuck to our game plan and got the result,” George said.
Elsewhere in the league, newly promoted Ikorodu City FC delivered a stunning performance to claim their first major victory in the NPFL, defeating Lobi Stars 4-2 in an action-packed match at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.
Lobi Stars, coached by former Nigerian international Daniel Amokachi, struggled to contain Ikorodu’s attacking prowess, as the Lagos-based side piled on the pressure from the start.
Ikorodu City, known as the “Oga Boys,” played with flair and intensity, leaving the Pride of Benue reeling after conceding four goals in a match filled with end-to-end action.
The upset victory marked a significant moment for Ikorodu City, showing they are ready to challenge the NPFL’s established teams despite being newcomers to the top flight.
In Uyo, Rangers International managed to hold Akwa United to a goalless draw, a result that neither side would have been entirely satisfied with, given their ambitions to climb higher up the table.
Both teams created chances but were unable to break the deadlock in what was a cagey, tactical affair.
Meanwhile, Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan returned to winning ways with a narrow 1-0 victory over Katsina United.
The win provides a much-needed boost for 3SC, who have had an inconsistent start to their season.
The lone goal was enough to secure all three points and put them back on track after a series of mixed results.
As the NPFL season progresses, Rivers United continue to look like the team to beat, while the thrilling win by Ikorodu City suggests the league’s newcomers are capable of springing surprises.
Matchday 8 provided excitement and drama, with more intriguing fixtures to come as the league begins to take shape.
