Rivers United head into the mid-season break with momentum firmly on their side after extending their lead at the top of in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 19.

Fans witnessed decisive wins, statement away performances, and a major shake-up behind the leaders as Kano Pillars stunned Nasarawa United in a northern derby, Footballrover reports.

Breakdown of Events in NPFL Matchday 19

Rivers United Extend Lead at the Summit

The NPFL leaders Rivers United have pulled clear at the top of the standings, opening a four-point cushion after edging Rangers International 1–0 on Sunday.

The victory, coupled with Nasarawa United’s slip-up away to Kano Pillars, strengthened the Port Harcourt side’s grip on first place.

Centre-back Boluwaji Sholumade delivered the decisive moment in the 53rd minute, powering home the winner for Finidi George’s men in their matchday 19 clash.

The result ensures Rivers United head into the mid-season break with a healthy advantage over their closest challengers.

Kano Pillars Stun Nasarawa United in Northern Derby

Rivers United’s lead was further boosted by Nasarawa United’s defeat at the Sani Abacha Stadium, where Kano Pillars turned on the style in a convincing home win.

Returning to Kano after serving a five-match home ban, Pillars wasted no time in making their presence felt.

Mustapha Umar opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, using his pace and composure to set the tempo for the encounter.

The hosts doubled their lead in the 68th minute through Chidozie Jude Okorie, who coolly chipped the goalkeeper following a perfectly weighted pass from Mustapha Jibrin.

Four minutes later, Pillars sealed the emphatic victory as Jibrin capped off a sweeping team move that involved Rabiu Ali and Umar, completing a polished attacking display.

Enyimba Cruise Past Shooting Stars

In Aba, Enyimba produced a dominant performance to dispatch Shooting Stars 3–0. Chinedu Ufere, Edidiong Ezekiel, and Chidera Michael all found the net to ensure a comfortable afternoon for the People’s Elephant.

Away Wins and Narrow Margins Elsewhere

In Jos, Plateau United suffered a 1–0 home defeat to Abia Warriors, with Taheer Abubakar striking in the 68th minute to decide the contest.

Katsina United secured their first away victory of the season, claiming a slim 1–0 win over Kun Khalifat in Owerri. Richard Christopher scored the decisive goal just before halftime.

El-kanemi Warriors also picked up maximum points on the road, edging Bayelsa United 1–0 at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa thanks to a goal from Sadiq Mohammed.

Niger Tornadoes Win at Home

At the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna, Niger Tornadoes recorded a 2–0 victory over Barau FC. Abdulaziz Dalhatu and Rickson Mendos were on target to secure the win for the hosts.

Warri Wolves and Wikki Tourists Share the Spoils

Warri Wolves and Wikki Tourists played out an entertaining 2–2 draw in Ozoro. Imamu Bala gave the visitors the lead shortly before halftime, only for Ezekiel Oroh to level for the hosts early in the second half.

Seth Mayi then put Warri Wolves ahead for the first time, but Bala struck again with 14 minutes remaining to earn Wikki Tourists a share of the points.

NPFL Matchday 19 Results at a Glance

– Niger Tornadoes 2–0 Barau FC
– Enyimba 3–0 Shooting Stars
– Bayelsa United 0–1 El-Kanemi Warriors
– Warri Wolves 2–2 Wikki Tourists
– Rivers United 1–0 Rangers International
– Kun Khalifat 0–1 Katsina United
– Plateau United 0–1 Abia Warriors
– Kano Pillars 3–0 Nasarawa United

Standings: A Close Race for Top Spot After NPFL Matchday 19

Standings: Struggle at the Bottom After NPFL Matchday 19

Top scorers

– Victor Mbaoma – 8
– Chidera Michael – 6
– Chidozie Iwundu – 6

What’s Next After NPFL Matchday 19

With the mid-season break now in focus, Rivers United will enjoy breathing space at the top while rivals regroup for the second half of the campaign.

The battle for continental places remains tight, while the relegation fight is beginning to take clear shape as well.

Like this post?
We’d be delighted to hear from you. Please leave a comment in the box below!

Last Updated on December 29, 2025 8:51 am by footballrover