The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) delivered a weekend of mixed emotions, highlighted by a stunning result in Kaduna and a series of frustrating postponements that have left fans and clubs alike feeling the strain of the season’s demanding schedule.
The biggest story of the weekend unfolded at the Kaduna Township Stadium, where Ranchers Bees delivered a statement victory by thrashing Abia Warriors 4-0 on Monday. The star of the show was Muhammed Rabiu Zulkifilu, who scored the first hat-trick of the 2026/27 EUROMATCH NPFL season. Zulkifilu found the net in the 41st, 45th, and 52nd minutes, his stunning treble leaving the Abia Warriors defence helpless.
The victory was even more surprising given Abia Warriors’ impressive start to the season. The Umuahia-based side had been tipped as early title contenders after a strong opening to the campaign. However, Ranchers Bees dismantled their more fancied opponents with clinical finishing and defensive solidity. The result will be a major concern for Abia Warriors, who must now regroup quickly to avoid losing further ground in the title race.
The weekend’s action was marred by the postponement of three high-profile fixtures due to continental commitments. The much-anticipated clash between nine-time champions Enyimba and Shooting Stars was called off because Enyimba had continental engagements that conflicted with the fixture. Similarly, the Katsina United versus Rivers United fixture was postponed because of Rivers United’s continental commitments, and the Warri Wolves versus Enugu Rangers match was also postponed.
In the matches that did go ahead, Kano Pillars edged Niger Tornadoes 3-2, while Nasarawa United secured a 1-0 victory over Bendel Insurance. Plateau United also recorded a narrow 1-0 win over Kwara United, while Kun Khalifat and Barau played out a goalless draw. Inter Lagos fell 1-0 to Doma United.
The winners: Muhammed Rabiu Zulkifilu, who has scored the first hat-trick of the season; and Ranchers Bees, who have secured a crucial victory. The losers: Abia Warriors, whose title credentials have been questioned; and fans who were left disappointed by the three postponements.
Bottom Line: Zulkifilu’s hat-trick headlines the weekend, while continental engagements forced postponements. The NPFL is already delivering drama, and the fixture congestion is a sign of the league’s rising status.