Barau FC and Kun Khalifat have sealed promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for the first time on Thursday, www.aclsports.com reports.
Kano-based Barau FC booked their place in next season’s NPFL following the conclusion of the Northern Conference group at the ongoing Nigeria National League (NNL) Super 8 play-offs in Delta State. On the other hand, Kun Khalifat was promoted for the first time after the Southern Conference group was concluded.
It was a tight affair before the final match day of the Northern group, with all four teams (Wikki Tourists, Yobe Desert Stars, Barau FC, and Doma United FC) with a chance of reaching the top flight. However, two goals through Usman Maidubji and Shammasu Muhd in the opening 20 minutes of the contest with Doma United sealed their elevation to the topflight at the first time of asking.
Meanwhile, Wikki Tourists thumped Yobe Desert Stars 4-0 to pick the other ticket for the Conference. Wonderson Yakubu hit a first-half hat-trick before turning provider for the other goal scored by Habila Simeon as the Elephants blew the Damaturu side away. It is a first return to the elite division in three seasons for Wikki.
In the Southern Conference, Kun Khalifat and Warri Wolves progressed at the expense of Osun United and Crown FC. Kun Khalifat defeated Osun United FC 2-1 at the Ozoro Stadium, while Warri Wolves edged Crown FC by the same scoreline at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba to seal their NPFL spots.
