Remo Stars ended 2023 at the top of the Nigeria Premier Football League table despite going down to a 3-1 defeat against Heartland in Owerri on Thursday.
Promise Anyanwu gave Heartland the lead in the 50th minute, while Sikiru Alimi equalised 19 minutes later.
The hosts won with two late goals from Onyekachi Okafor and Chinedu Ike.
Remo Stars top the standings with 29 points from 16 games.
Lobi Stars moved to second place courtesy of a 1-0 victory against Niger Tonardoes.
Kumaga Suur scored the winning goal 15 minutes from time.
League title holders Enyimba recorded the only away win of the day, edging out Bayelsa United 2-1 in Yenagoa.
Enyimba took the lead through Ekenne Awazie in the 65th minute.
The team fought back, with Israel Consul scoring the leveller seven minutes later.
Chijioke Mbaoma netted the winning goal for Enyimba from the spot nine minutes from time.
Remo Stars finish 2023 as NPFL leaders
