NPFL Week 5 Roundup: Goals, Drama, and Talking Points

Match-day five of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) delivered on its promise of end to end action, with a lot of goals, surprising results, and a clear battle already forming between the title contenders and the relegation contenders. From Aba to Minna, the league's top-tier clubs already provided fans with plenty to discuss.

Enyimba’s Resilience and Unbeaten Run Continues

Leading the charge at the top of the table is Enyimba Football Club, who held on to their unbeaten record and top spot after a thrilling 3-2 victory over long-time rivals Bendel Insurance. In a match filled with end-to-end action, the People’s Elephant were forced to come from behind not once, but twice, proving their champions' mentality. Goals from Abiodun Joseph, Kalu Nweke, and Chidera Michael secured the win, showing a steady determination that will be crucial as the season progresses . As Enyimba now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Rivers United as the only teams yet to lose a game this season.

3SC Finally Gets a Taste of Victory

In Ibadan, the mood was one of immense relief as Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) finally secured their first win of the season. The Oluyole Warriors managed a vital 2-1 win over newly-promoted Kun Khalifat FC, a result that will hopefully kickstart their campaign. The victory, sealed by goals from Gali Falke and Sodiq Ibrahim, lifts them out of the immediate relegation spots and gives their fans a renewed sense of hope.

Goal-Fest in Minna

For pure entertainment, the match at the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna was the one to watch. Niger Tornadoes treated their home crowd to a six-goal thriller, defeating Ikorodu City 4-2. Tornadoes were in Top form, racing to a 3-0 lead within just 20 minutes, with goals from Ismail Sarki, Abba Khalid, and Abdulaziz Dalhatu. Although Ikorodu City fought back, Shehu Dabai's strike and a late penalty ensured Tornadoes stayed home with all three points. This result firmly places Niger Tornadoes in the conversation for a top-half finish.

Bayelsa United's Home Woes.

While some teams are celebrating, others are facing a difficult reality as Bayelsa United's poor start to the season continued with a second consecutive home defeat, this time a 2-1 loss to a resurgent Nasarawa United. Despite taking the lead, Bayelsa was unable to hold on, and the loss sees them dropping further down the table. Their struggle to convert home advantage into points is a major concern and that needs to be addressed quickly.

Relegation Worries Loom

With a number of games postponed, the league table is still in flux, but the bottom four is a cause for concern for some clubs. Newcomers Barau FC, who are yet to secure a win, find themselves in the relegation zone alongside Plateau United, Kun Khalifat, and in a shock to many the eight-time champions Rangers International. The season is early and form suggests these teams have a difficult road ahead and they must find their rhythm soon so as to avoid a fight for survival.

This week's results have certainly set the stage for a fascinating season, with clear narratives emerging at both ends of the table. The next few weeks will be crucial as teams will try to either solidify their position or claw their way back from a difficult start.