NPFL Golden Boot race heats up as season enters final stretch

As the curtain draws closer on the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, attention is not only fixed on the title race and the surprising struggles of reigning champions Remo Stars, but also on a thrilling battle for individual honours.

The race for the golden boot has intensified, with at least six players emerging as strong contenders ahead of the final six matchdays.

Leading the pack are Godwin Obaje of Enugu Rangers and Joseph Arumala of Ikorodu City FC, both on 11 goals apiece, setting up what promises to be a tense finish to the season.

Hot on their heels are Victor Mbaoma (Remo Stars), Daddy Abdulrahman of El-Kanemi Warriors FC, Uche Collins of Katsina United FC, and Emeka Obioma of Abia Warriors FC—all tied on 10 goals.

Tight Statistics Fuel the Contest

Among the leading scorers, Obaje, Arumala, and Mbaoma stand out for their combined attacking contributions. Obaje and Arumala each boast 11 goals and two assists, while Mbaoma has reached 10 goals despite featuring in just 23 matches, having missed part of the campaign due to a rib injury.

Abdulrahman, meanwhile, has been one of the most consistent performers, recording 10 goals and two assists across the most appearances among the top scorers.

In contrast, Obioma remains the only top-six contender yet to register an assist this season, despite 26 appearances for Abia Warriors.

Collins has also made his mark by becoming the only player in the top six to score a hat-trick this campaign.

Behind the frontrunners, the race remains equally compelling. Temitope Vincent Adebayo of Plateau United FC leads the chasing group with nine goals, alongside players such as Sodiq Ibrahim (Shooting Stars SC), Chidera Michael of Enyimba International FC, and Igbunu Evwierhurhoma of Warri Wolves FC.

Their recent form has kept them within striking distance, adding further intrigue to the race.

Also in contention are players on eight goals, including Jonathan Mairiga, Chidozie Iwundu of Rangers, the Bendel Insurance duo of Kayode Oke and Alex Oweilayefa, as well as Qamar Adegoke of Shooting Stars. Veteran Kano Pillars midfielder Rabiu Ali also remains in the mix with seven goals.

Defender Making Headlines

One of the standout stories is the performance of Rangers defender Chidozie Iwundu, who leads all defenders in goals scored. In addition to his 29 appearances, he has maintained discipline with just three yellow cards and one red card, while also contributing significantly to Rangers’ title push.

With six matchdays remaining, the race for the NPFL golden boot remains wide open. Form, fixtures, defensive challenges, and attacking momentum will all play crucial roles in determining the winner.

At this stage, no contender can be ruled out as the battle for individual glory promises a dramatic and unpredictable conclusion to the season.