NPFL: Remo Stars end 2023 as pacesetters despite loss
Heartland of Owerri scored two stunning late goals to record a 3-1 victory against title contenders Remo Stars in Match Day 16 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri, Imo State.
After a goalless first half, Heartland opened the scoring through a Promise Anyanwu penalty in the 50th minute. Then in the 68th minute, Skiru Alimi equalised for Remo Stars with his 11th goal of the season.
Just when Remo Stars thought they had done enough to share the spoils, Onyekachi Okafor and Chinedu Ike scored two stunning goals, including a contender for goal of the season, to give Kennedy Boboye’s men the win and crucial three points.
In Enugu, Rangers International got the better of Shooting Stars to mark their return to the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in a grand style with a comfortable 2-0 win.
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Visiting Bendel Insurance held Rivers United to a 1-1 draw in Port Harcourt while Kano Pillars came from a goal down to beat Kwara United 2-1.
With the important win, Heartland are now within just a point of safety with after 16 games while Remo Stars, despite the shock defeat, remain top of the NPFL with 29 points from 16 games.
Lobi Stars moved to second place on the table courtesy of a 1-0 victory against Niger Tornadoes, while Doma United are in third with 28 points.