Rivers United ended the first stanza of the 2025/26 NPFL campaign at the top after grinding out a narrow 1–0 victory over Rangers International on Sunday, www.aclsports.com reports.
Finidi George’s United have been making giant strides in the current campaign, and thanks to Boluwaji Sholumade’s goal, they end the first stanza on a high note with assistant coach Yemi Olanrewaju in temporary charge in the absence of Finidi who was away due to family reasons.
Rivers United have 37 points from their first 19 games, and they currently hold a four-point lead over second-placed Abia Warriors, who surprisingly edged Plateau United 1-0 in Jos.
In other matches decided on match day 19, Ikorodu City defeated champions Remo Stars 1-0 in the South West derby in Lagos. Alfred Odinaka’s strong effort from distance beat goalkeeper Alladoum Kolimba in the 40th minute, and the Oga Boys held on for another win at home. The win ensured they move up to third place same points as former league leaders Nasarawa United.
In Aba, Shooting Stars were soundly beaten by Enyimba 3-0. Chinedu Ufere, Edidiong Ezekiel, and Chidera Michael with the goals for the Aba giants. Similarly, Kano Pillars hammered Nasarawa United 3-0 in Kano. Umar Mustapha, Chiedozie Okorie, and Mustapha Jibrin with the goals for Sai Masu Gida on their return to Kano.
Midfielder Richard Christopher scored the only goal of the game to help Katsina United steal all three points from Kun Khalifat in Owerri, while Sadiq Mohammed was the match winner as Elkanemi Warriors also secured the win on away territory against Bayelsa United in Yenagoa.
Warri Wolves and Wikki Tourists played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in Ozoro. Niger Tornadoes continued their fine home form with a comfortable 2-0 win over Barau. Abdulazeez Dalhatu and Rickson Mendos with the goals for the Ikon Allah Boys in Minna. Earlier on Saturday, Bendel Insurance also defeated Kwara United 2-0 in Benin City to move further away from the drop.
The 2025/26 NPFL season will now proceed on a mid-season break until January 13th, 2026, when games will return with match day 20 action.
