NNL26: ABS Survives Relegation, Doma United Returns to NPFL as Mighty Jets Hit Rock Bottom

By Amaechi Agbo

NNL Matchday 16 saw some crucial results, with ABS recording a famous win to secure their stay in the Nigeria National League (NNL) with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Sokoto United in Sokoto. The victory was vital for ABS, as they had entered the match knowing a win was imperative to avoid relegation to the Nationwide League One (NLO). Meanwhile, Mighty Jets were relegated to NLO.

In other action, Kada City recorded a 3-1 win over Doma United, who had already secured promotion to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) prior to the match. Doma United had topped Group C Conference with 26 points, and the win for Kada City was a mere formality for the promoted side.

Akwa United further cementing their position at the top of Conference B with a commanding 3-1 victory over Ekiti United at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The emphatic win marks Akwa United’s second consecutive triumph, keeping their promotion aspirations alive and bolstering their chances of returning to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

The match against Ekiti United was a crucial encounter for both teams, with Akwa United’s determination and resolve evident in their performance. The hosts dominated proceedings, scoring three goals and conceding only once. Ekiti United, despite putting up a spirited fight, were unable to capitalize on their opportunities, ultimately falling short in Uyo.

Sporting Lagos kept pressure on leaders Akwa United with a 5-1 thrashing of 10-man Stormers FC in Abeokuta. The result keeps Sporting Lagos in contention for promotion to  the NPFL.

Meanwhile, in Conference A, Inter Lagos maintained their position at the summit with a resilient 0-0 draw against Sunshine Stars in Akure. The hard-fought point keeps Inter Lagos in prime position to secure one of the coveted promotion spots to the NPFL. Sunshine Stars, despite creating chances, were unable to breach the Inter Lagos defense, highlighting the team’s solidity and defensive prowess.

Other matches in the NNL Matchday 16 produced equally thrilling encounters, with teams battling for supremacy in their respective conferences. As the league approaches its business end, the promotion battle is heating up, with teams gearing up for the next phase of the competition. With few games remaining, the race for the top spot in each conference is set to intensify, promising more nail-biting action for fans of Nigerian football.

In Conference A, Inter Lagos’s consistent performances have earned them a comfortable lead at the top, but the likes of Sunshine Stars and other contenders are lurking, ready to pounce on any slip-up. The NNL title and promotion spots are up for grabs, and the next few weeks promise to be a thrilling ride for fans.