Enyimba Football Club of Aba have emerged the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) after a 1-1 draw with defending champion, Rivers United of Port Harcourt in the last match of the mini league series.
The people’s elephant wrestled the title away from Rivers United’s hands after an entertaining encounter that ended with both sides picking up only one point. They are the Football Club with the most NPFL titles as they have now extended their record from eight to nine.
Ekene Awazie handed Enyimba the lead in the 39th minute after a mistake by a Rivers United defender was perfectly capitalized upon by the People’s Elephant attackers. The lead was well protected by the Aba side as they went into the half-time break with a 1-0 lead.
The second half had barely commenced when Nwangwa Nyiwa scored in the 48th minute to level matters. Despite the flurry chances that came the way of both teams, neither side could score winner.
Enyimba Football Club held on to win the NPFL title on goal difference despite finishing on nine points just like Remo Stars and Rivers United. They get the trophy, one hundred million naira and a spot in the CAF Champions League. Remo Stars picked up the other CAF Champions League ticket while Rivers United had to settle for the CAF Confederation Cup ticket.
Sunshine Stars of Akure occupied the fourth position on the log and missed out on qualifying for any of the continental competitions. Bendel Insurance of Benin occupied the fifth spot while Lobi Stars of Markurdi were rooted to the basement of the Super Six league table.
