Sporting Lagos seal dramatic NPFL return with crucial final-day victory

By Tosin Omojola

Barely two seasons after their demotion to the Nigerian National League (NNL), Sporting Lagos have staged a sensational return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

The Lagos State-based side secured promotion on Thursday following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Osun United of Osogbo in a tense encounter played at Ile Ogbo.

The decisive clash proved crucial for Sporting Lagos, who battled relentlessly to claim the much-needed win on the final day of the NNL Conference B campaign.

With the victory, Sporting Lagos finished top of the group with 36 points, three points ahead of second-placed Akwa United of Uyo, who also recorded a 2-1 away win against Solutions FC.

Emotions ran high after the encounter, as Osun United supporters were left disappointed following confirmation of the Omoluabi Boys’ relegation to a lower division.

In contrast, Sporting Lagos fans erupted in celebration, marking a triumphant return to the top flight after a brief spell in the second tier.

The club’s promotion is a major boost for Lagos State football, increasing the number of NPFL teams from the state to three.

Sporting Lagos now join Inter Lagos FC, who earlier secured promotion from Conference A ahead of Beyond Limits of Ikenne, as well as Ikorodu City, further strengthening the South West’s presence in the elite league.