Smart City FC advances to 20 points in week 14 victory and keeps NPFL promotion dream alive

Smart City FC strengthened their push for promotion in matchday 14 of the Nigerian National League with a convincing 3-1 win over Crown FC at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, a result that takes them to 20 points and keeps their NPFL qualification ambitions firmly on track.

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The Lagos team made its intentions clear from the first minutes and only needed four minutes to break the tie. Ismail Adeoti reacted quicker after Crown FC goalkeeper Yusuf Rauf failed to fully control an attacking play, and the striker calmly scored to give Smart City the perfect start.

That early goal gave confidence to the home team, who continued to press with determination, forcing Crown FC back with wave after wave of attack.

Their dominance paid off again in the 24th minute when Donald Obiajulu doubled the lead. Despite protests from the visitors over a possible offside, the goal stood and Smart City took firm control of the match.

Crown FC tried to respond after the break, introducing fresh legs and showing more urgency in attack, but Smart City maintained its composure and discipline.

Their defense remained strong under pressure, while the goalkeeper and defenders combined well to frustrate the Ajilete Warriors.

Just when the visitors seemed to want to get back into the game, Smart City attacked again. In the 85th minute, Warrith Olaoye took advantage of the space in midfield and finished clinically to make it 3-0, effectively ending the match and confirming the hosts’ superiority.

Crown FC managed to pull one back thanks to Hammed Hammed in stoppage time, but it was only a late consolation as Smart City comfortably saw out the game.

The victory represents another important step for Smart City FC as the season enters a crucial phase. With 20 points after Week 14, the club remains firmly in the race for a ticket to the NPFL, and performances like this will only increase confidence within the team and among the fans.

For Smart City, the message is clear: the dream of promotion is still alive and, with consistency, discipline and continued offensive quality, they remain serious contenders in the race for a place in the top flight.