Matchday 9 of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) produced important victories, hard-fought draws and fresh developments in the battle for positions on the league table, with Shooting Stars returning to winning ways, Nasarawa United securing an impressive away victory and defending champions, Rangers International retaining top spot despite not playing.
Shooting Stars kicked off the weekend with a 3-1 victory over Ranchers Bees at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan on Friday.
Desmond Ojietefian opened the scoring in the 14th minute before Isah Ndala equalised for the visitors in the 38th minute.
Damilola Akinola restored the hosts’ advantage in first-half stoppage time, while Qamar Adegoke sealed the victory in the 71st minute.
The result ended a five-match winless run for the Oluyole Warriors and provided a much-needed boost to their campaign. It, however, led to the sack of Bees’ Coach, Usman Abdallah.
Saturday’s fixtures produced two draws, with Kwara United held 1-1 by Abia Warriors, while Doma United and Kun Khalifat FC also shared the points following a 1-1 stalemate.
Sunday’s matches brought further drama, particularly in Lagos, where Nasarawa United defeated Inter Lagos 2-0 away from home.
The result strengthened Nasarawa United’s campaign while adding to the difficulties facing Inter Lagos, who have endured a challenging start to life in the top flight.
In Aba, nine-time Nigerian champions Enyimba were held to a goalless draw by Warri Wolves, leaving the People’s Elephant still searching for consistency after a disappointing opening to the season.
Kano Pillars claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over Katsina United in their northern derby, earning three valuable points.
Niger Tornadoes also recorded a 2-1 home victory over Ikorodu City, while Sporting Lagos secured a notable 3-2 away result against Plateau United in Jos.
Rivers United and Barau FC were in a stalemate when the match was suspended, with 15 minutes remaining, due to heavy rainfall. The game resume on Monday morning, October 19, from 8:00 a.m.
The scheduled encounter between Rangers International and Bendel Insurance was postponed to allow the Enugu club to focus on its CAF Champions League commitments.
Rangers consequently remained on 17 points from eight matches, maintaining their position at the summit of the standings ahead of their closest challengers.
SOURCE: SPORTYSIDEUP