NPFL Review: Man on fire Alimi inspires Remo Stars, Enyimba disappoint yet again

An average of two goals was scored per game in Week 6 in the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, which was filled with contrasting emotions. 

Remo Stars continued their sparking form, ignited by the exceptional performance of ‘Man on Fire’, Sikiru Alimi, while defending champions, Enyimba, continue to grapple with disappointment. 

The Sky Blues, a team that has been steadily climbing the ranks in the NPFL, had their moment in the spotlight as they soared to another derby success in the midweek fixtures. 

Remo made it back-to-back wins in the Southwest Derby with Alimi the standout player for the league leaders in Ikenne. 

The Super Eagles star has found his scoring boots and is a man of fire at the moment after his brace fired Remo to an emphatic 3-0 demolition of their visitors Shooting Stars on Wednesday evening.

Both goals were scored in either half, the first a penalty before a calm finish to wrap things up after academy graduate Ahmed Akinyele’s first-ever goal in the top flight had the Stars in front.

The goals against his former club took Alimi’s contributions this season in the derby to three goals after he scored netted in the 2-1 win against Noisy Lagosians, Sporting Lagos.

Alimi has now scored five goals in four matches this season for Remo in the NPFL and sits joint-top in the race for the Golden Boot. 

The unwavering spirit of the Nigerian international and his remarkable form this season has solidified his status as a player to watch out for in the NPFL.

On the other hand, reigning champions, Enyimba, a club with a rich history and ardent fan base in the NPFL, continue to fail their fans with ongoing disappointment.

The People’s Elephant recent performances have not met the expectations of their supporters so far, leaving many eagerly awaiting a turnaround in their fortunes. 

Enyimba went, saw but failed to conquer their hosts, Niger Tornadoes after a goalless affair in Minna. The Elephants had their goalkeeper, Ojo, to thank for leaving with a share of the spoils as he made crucial saves to deny the Ikom Allah Boys. 

As the 2023/2024 season unfolds, the contrasting journeys of Remo Stars and Enyimba add depth and intrigue to the league.

Elsewhere in the NPFL, Akwa United finally had a reason to smile after a narrow 1-0 win over Gombe United in Uyo ended a run of five matches without a win. 

Rivers United shared the spoils in Owerri with hosts Heartland, while Kano Pillars dismantled Bayelsa United 3-0 in Kano.

Noisy Lagosians, Sporting Lagos and Abia Warriors lost 2-1 to Kwara United and Sunshine Stars in controversial circumstances respectively.