Osun United Beat First Bank, Join Seven Others In NPFL Promotion Battle
Osun United on Saturday clinched the final ticket to the Nigeria National League (NNL) promotion playoffs with an emphatic 3-1 victory over First Bank FC at the Ile Ogbo Stadium.
The Omoluabi Giants, who needed a win to seal qualification ahead of rivals Rovers FC of Calabar, wasted no time in asserting their dominance.
Nurudeen Gberefun opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 2nd minute after Emmanuel Essien was brought down in the box.
Essien doubled the lead just four minutes later, capping off a blistering start for the home side.
Despite a late consolation from First Bank, the result was never in doubt as Gberefun completed his brace in the 76th minute to put the match beyond reach.
The win ensured Osun United joined seven other clubs, Crown FC, Kun Khalifat, Doma FC, Barau FC, Wikki Tourists, Yobe Desert Stars, and Warri Wolves in the promotion playoffs for a place in the 2025–26 Nigeria Premier Football League.
Elsewhere, Rovers FC defeated Solution FC 3-1 in Calabar, but the result proved insufficient, as Osun United’s superior standing secured their progression.
Godswill Akpabio United avoided relegation with a crucial 3-0 win over Gateway United, while last season’s playoff hopefuls, Madiba FC, suffered a 4-1 defeat to Abakaliki FC in Lagos — a result that condemned both sides to the third-tier Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO).
With all promotion playoff contenders now confirmed, the NNL board is expected to announce the fixtures and venue for the decisive playoff series in the coming days.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
