NPFL: Dakkada relegation to NNL confirmed

Dakkada have had their relegation to the Nigeria National League (NNL) confirmed following their 1-1 draw with Lobi Stars in Uyo on Saturday.

Formerly known as Akwa Starlets, Dakkada had spent the last four seasons in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after gaining its first-ever promotion from the NNL in July 2019.

Heading into Saturday's game, it was win or nothing for the Uyo side, who had prior to week 17 of the 2023 season, garnered only 12 points in 16 matches.

After a barren first half, Dakkada managed to get themselves in front, with a second half goal, however, the visitors extinguished their hopes as a converted penalty by Elijah Ani levlled the scores.

Despite their countless efforts at scoring again, luck failed to smile on Dakkada as they settle for a 1-1 scoreline at full-time, sealing their return to the second division.

Week 17 of the 2023 NPFL regular season will enter its full gear on Sunday with five teams facing the possiblity of going down alongside Dakkada.

In Group B, Rangers will hope that they can pick up points at Doma United to make matters worse force last-placed Wikki Tourists who will play Abia Warriors at home in Bauchi.

Meanwhile, the likes of Gombe United, Kwara United, Nasarawa United and El Kanemi Warriors attempting to record favourable outcomes in other to avoid being the two teams to go down from Group A.