By Ademola Abayomi
Matchday 8 of the EuroMatch NPFL 2026/2027 season began in dramatic fashion on Friday, October 9, as Katsina United defeated Enyimba 4-2 in a six-goal thriller at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium.
Katsina United beat Enyimba in six-goal thriller
Katsina United produced an impressive performance to secure three points against nine-time Nigerian champions Enyimba.
The hosts took an early lead in the sixth minute thanks to an own goal by Enyimba defender Emeka Onyema before Mubarak Sani doubled their lead six minutes later to give Katsina United a 2-0 lead.
Lius Dadong extended the home team’s lead in the 60th minute, leaving the Aba giants with a mountain to climb.
Enyimba responded with a spirited comeback in the second half, as Chidera Michael pulled one back in the 67th minute before Charles Egbe scored eight minutes later to reduce the deficit to 3-2 and revive hopes of a comeback.
However, Katsina United sealed the victory in the 80th minute when Umar Rabiu scored his fourth goal, putting the result beyond doubt.
The victory ended Enyimba’s three-match unbeaten run and gave Katsina United a valuable home victory.
Rangers and Rivers United face crucial away tests
Attention now turns to league leaders Rangers International and second-placed Rivers United, who face demanding away games this weekend.
Rangers lead the table with 16 points, while Rivers United are just one point behind with 15. Both teams will be eager to strengthen their positions at the top, while fourth-placed Barau FC, with 12 points, will look to close the gap when they host Rangers on Sunday.
The Rangers go into the match knowing that a victory would consolidate their position at the top. However, Barau has made an encouraging start to the campaign and will see the match as an opportunity to make a statement against the league leaders.
Rivers United face an equally tough test against Abia Warriors. With just one point separating them from Rangers, the Port Harcourt team cannot afford to drop points if they want to keep the pressure on at the top.
With the leading teams very evenly matched, both games could prove important in shaping the title race.
Shooting stars seek response against Kun Khalifat
The Shooting Stars travel to face Kun Khalifat on Sunday after a frustrating start to the campaign.
The Oluyole Warriors will be desperate for a positive result to regain momentum but the hosts will look to capitalize on home advantage.
The Shooting Stars must improve their offensive efficiency and defensive organization to have a chance of returning home with a favorable result.
Other matches of matchday 8
Saturday’s action will see Ikorodu City host Kwara United, while the Ranchers Bees host the Niger Tornadoes.
Sunday’s matches also feature Nasarawa United against Doma United, with both teams looking to strengthen their positions in the standings. Plateau United host Kano Pillars, Sporting Lagos take on Bendel Insurance, while Warri Wolves take on Inter Lagos.
With valuable points up for grabs across the division, Matchday 8 offers clubs the opportunity to climb up the table, halt disappointing runs and build momentum for the upcoming matches.
Schedule and results of matchday 8 of the NPFL
Friday October 9
Katsina United 4–2 Enyimba (FT)
Saturday October 10
Ikorodu City vs Kwara United
Livestock bees vs Niger tornadoes
Sunday October 11
Barau FC vs Rangers International
Abia Warriors vs Rivers United
Kun Khalifat vs Shooting Stars
Nasarawa United vs. Doma United
Warri Wolves vs Inter Lagos
Plateau United vs Pillars of Kano
Sporting Lagos vs Seguros Bendel
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