Sporting Lagos have secured a sensational return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following a 1-0 win at Osun United on the final day of the Nigeria National League (NNL) on Thursday, www.aclsports.com reports.
The Lagosians, who needed a win in their final game of the season to secure a return to the elite division since their relegation two years ago, got the breakthrough in the 17th minute when Aliyu Baba’s cross was headed home by Alex Leme.
Moments after the visitors went in front, the home side, who were also staring at relegation to the third tier, were awarded a spot-kick. From the resulting penalty, Hakeem Olalere sent his effort against the woodwork.
Jeffrey Butler’s side was on the ropes for the remainder of the match, as goalkeeper Clinton Lawal made several brilliant stops to keep them in the lead and eventually secure the victory.
Sporting Lagos were locked in a fight for promotion with 2022 NPFL champions Akwa United, who were also playing away at Solution FC in Awka. Although the Akwa Ibom side claimed the maximum three points in Awka, Sporting Lagos’ win in Ile Ogbo meant they will remain in the second division for another campaign.
In the end, Sporting Lagos secured their return to the top-flight, joining Inter Lagos and Ikorodu City as the other Lagos teams in the NPFL for the 2026/27 season.
