Delta State’s Warri Wolves have secured promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Crown FC at the iconic Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba. Needing a win to confirm their NPFL ticket, Wolves bounced back from an earlier 1-0 loss to Osun United by defeating Kun Khalifat 3-0 in their second game.
Despite heavy rainfall in Asaba, forward Abdulateef Yusuf broke the deadlock in the 36th minute, only for Crown FC to equalize a minute later due to a goalkeeping error by Joke Emevwera. Igbunu Evwierhurhoma sealed the win in the 62nd minute, capitalizing on a spilled free-kick by Crown FC’s goalkeeper, Mubarak Sultan.
Warri Wolves’ head coach, Napoleon Aluma, praised his team’s resilience:
"I had full confidence in my team despite the goalkeeper’s error. Our unity and determination from November 7th last year drove us to this promotion."
He dedicated the achievement to Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Sports Commission Chairman, and the people of Delta State.
Looking ahead to the finals against Wikki Tourists, Aluma said:
"We lost to them before, but this final is our chance to rewrite history."
The NNL championship decider will see Warri Wolves face Group A winners Wikki Tourists, with both teams already securing NPFL spots for the 2025-2026 season alongside Kun Khalifat and Barau FC.
Barau FC Makes History with First-Ever NPFL Promotion
Kano State’s Barau FC has earned a historic promotion to the NPFL for the first time after a commanding 2-0 win over Doma United in the NNL Super 8 playoffs.
Midfield maestro Usman Maidubji, on loan from Kano Pillars, opened the scoring—his first goal in the tournament—while Mohammed Shammasu sealed the victory with a stunning strike. Maidubji, a versatile player who joined when the club was struggling, played a pivotal role in their resurgence.
Kun Khalifat CEO Hails NPFL Promotion as "Dream Come True"
Kun Khalifat FC’s CEO, Michael Chukwudi, described their NPFL promotion as a dream realized through hard work and belief.
"Ten months ago, I promised to take this club to the top division—today, that promise is fulfilled," he said. The Imo State-based club, which started as a grassroots team, has risen from the Nationwide League (NLO) to the NPFL in three seasons. Chukwudi vowed to build on this success, saying, "We will work harder to make the club even better."
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