Rivers United missed a key opportunity to close the gap in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) title race after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Bayelsa United on Wednesday.
The loss on Matchday 31 marks a second consecutive defeat to Bayelsa this season, further complicating their pursuit of the league leaders.
Bayelsa United stun Rivers United again
Finidi George’s Rivers United struggled to break down a resilient Bayelsa United side, conceding in the 19th minute when Kehinde Malik found the net.
The goal proved decisive, securing all three points for Bayelsa and extending their strong record against Rivers United, having taken nine points from a possible twelve against them this season.
The result leaves Rivers United trailing behind both Remo Stars and league leaders Lobi Stars, who still have a game in hand.
With only a handful of matches left in the season, the defeat represents a significant setback for Rivers United’s title ambitions.
Abia Warriors secure crucial win over Lobi Stars
While Rivers United stumbled, Abia Warriors capitalized on their opportunity with a convincing 2-0 victory over Lobi Stars.
Sunday Megwo and Anthony Ijoma were on target for the Warriors, bringing their combined tally for the season to 18 goals.
The victory marks Abia Warriors’ second consecutive win and moves them to 50 points, just two behind Rivers United.
With momentum on their side, they remain firmly in contention for a top-three finish.
Sunshine Stars edge closer to relegation zone
Elsewhere, Sunshine Stars endured a frustrating goalless draw against Heartland Owerri, a result that does little to ease their relegation concerns.
With the season nearing its conclusion, every dropped point increases the pressure on Sunshine Stars as they battle to retain their top-flight status.
Matchday 31 results (March 26, 2025)
- Abia Warriors 2-0 Lobi Stars
- Bayelsa United 1-0 Rivers United
- Kwara United 1-0 Nasarawa United
- Kano Pillars 0-0 Bendel Insurance
- Sunshine Stars 0-0 Heartland Owerri
With the NPFL title race tightening and relegation battles intensifying, the next few matchdays will be crucial in determining the fate of teams across the league.
