2024/2025 NPFL Matchday one predictions: Expect fireworks
As the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season continues in full swing, fans are gearing up for an action-packed matchday one weekend. SportsRation correspondent Nsikakabasi Akpan presents a preview and predictions for each of the nine available NPFL fixtures for, September 8-9, 2024:
1. Abia Warriors vs. Remo Stars
Abia Warriors will be eager to make a strong start at home, but Remo Stars, last season’s runners-up, are a formidable opponent. Despite the absence of their manager, Daniel Ogunmodede, due to national duty, Remo Stars will rely on their solid squad to secure points.
Prediction: Expect a tough game with the Warriors facing a potential home draw
Winner: Tricky tie
Goals: Expect a low-scoring game, possibly 1-0, 1-1, 0-1.
2. Heartland FC vs. Enyimba
Enyimba, the reigning champions, will be aiming to continue their dominance as they visit Coach Emmanuel Amuneke tutored Heartland FC. Yemi Olanrewaju’s side should have too much firepower but Heartland will look to make a mark with their young squad.
Prediction: Enyimba to win or draw.
Goals: Expect multiple goals, 2-2 or 1-2.
3. Bendel Insurance vs. Rivers United
Finidi George’s return to club football with Rivers United adds drama to this fixture. Bendel Insurance will look to play the role of spoilers, but Rivers United’s experience could see them take all three points. Take note, Insurance have always been a low-scoring side especially at home.
Prediction: Bendel Insurance to win or draw
Goals: Low scoring , 1-0 or 0-0.
4. Kano Pillars vs. Ikorodu City
Kano Pillars, playing at home, will be eager to take advantage of their formidable reputation, especially against newly-promoted Ikorodu City. The newcomers could struggle to match Kano Pillars’ physicality and quality.
Prediction: Kano Pillars to dominate.
Winner: Kano Pillars
Goals: Comfortable margin, 2-0 or 3-1.
5. Sunshine Stars vs. Bayelsa United
Sunshine Stars will face a determined Bayelsa United side. Both teams will want to make a positive start, but Sunshine Stars may have the edge with home support behind them.
Prediction: Sunshine Stars to win a tight contest.
Winner: Sunshine Stars
Goals: Few goals, 1-0 or 2-1.
6. Nasarawa United vs. Shooting Stars
Shooting Stars had a strong finish last season, and they’ll be looking to carry that form into this fixture. Nasarawa United, however, are tough to beat at home, which could make for an even match. For the visitors, their pre-season form has been superb while United recently appointed Kabiru Dogo.
Prediction: A draw is on the cards.
Winner: Draw
Goals: Low-scoring, 0-0 or 1-1.
7. Plateau United vs. Katsina United
Plateau United will relish the opportunity to start their campaign with a home win against a resilient Katsina United. With strong home support, Plateau United should have enough to claim victory.
Prediction: Plateau United to win.
Winner: Plateau United
Goals: Moderate goals, 2-1 or 2-0.
8. Kwara United vs. Niger Tornadoes
Kwara United will want to impress their fans with a strong home performance, but Niger Tornadoes are no pushovers. This could be a closely-fought battle with both teams evenly matched. Despite the exit of Dogo with few weeks to league resumption, Illorin fans will press for a winning start to the season.
Prediction: Kwara United to edge a win.
Winner: Kwara United
Goals: Low-scoring, 1-0 or 2-1.
9. Lobi Stars vs. Akwa United (Monday Football)
This clash promises to be one of the highlights of the opening weekend. Both Lobi Stars and Akwa United will go all out, with both sides capable of attacking play. Akwa United could prove too strong, especially with their counter-attacking prowess.
Prediction: A tricky yet entertaining contest.
Goals: High-scoring, 2-3, 3-1 or 1-3.
2024/2025 NPFL OPENING GAME
The opening game of the season took place on August 31, 2024 and saw Rangers International FC share spoils with El-Kanemi Warriors following a 0-0 draw to kickstart the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
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