2024/2025 NPFL Returns: Fixtures, Preview, and Predictions for Week 20
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) returns this weekend with a compelling set of fixtures that promises drama, redemption, and some heated rivalries. With the second stanza of the 2024/2025 season now upon us, teams are desperate to either maintain their momentum or bounce back from disappointing performances. SportsRations’ Nsikakabasi Akpan looks at the key fixtures, previews the NPFL week 20 action, and offers some cheeky predictions to spice up the anticipation.
Akwa United vs Remo Stars
Prediction: Akwa United 2-1 Remo Stars
Remo Stars sit at the top of the NPFL table with 36 points, but they face a stern test against redemption seeking Akwa United. The Promise Keepers have made a coaching change, welcoming back Kennedy Boboye, and they’ll be looking to bounce back from a tumultuous first half of the season. Although they lost 2-1 in Ikenne during the first leg, the Sky Blue Stars didn’t exactly have an easy ride. This one will be a tightly contested encounter. Nsikakabasi Akpan predicts a narrow victory for Akwa United, but promises Remo Stars will ‘bring the heat’.
Nasarawa United vs Katsina United
Prediction: Nasarawa United 1-1 Katsina United
Nasarawa United, languishing at the bottom of the table, are under pressure to perform. After a 1-0 loss to Katsina United in the first stanza, they will be determined to get back on track. The Solid Miners have signed some new players, and now is the time for them to prove their worth. With home advantage and an urgent need for points, they should have the upper hand against a Katsina United side sitting comfortably in 13th place. Akpan, in his usual sarcastic brilliance, quips, “The Solid Miners won’t just dig, they’ll try to bury Katsina.” Well, let’s see if they really can!
Abia Warriors vs Bayelsa United
Prediction: Abia Warriors 1-0 Bayelsa United
Abia Warriors have been strong on home turf, and with their 1-0 victory over Bayelsa United in the first stanza, they will be confident of repeating the feat. The Warriors will look to keep the momentum going, especially after a strong finish to the first half of the season. Bayelsa United, however, are no pushovers and will look to cause an upset, but Akpan predicts a tight, cagey affair – “Just one goal will do it for Abia Warriors,” he says, almost like he’s reading the future. Oh, the suspense!
Rangers International vs Niger Tornadoes
Prediction: Rangers 2-1 Niger Tornadoes
Rangers International are hoping to continue their upward trajectory with a second straight win over Niger Tornadoes, following their 1-0 victory in the first leg. Tornadoes are a tricky side, but Rangers have shown enough resilience to secure all three points at home. The Flying Antelopes are a team to watch this season, and their momentum from their recent win in Minna should propel them forward. As Akpan puts it, “Rangers will ‘fly’ and leave Tornadoes in their wake—windy excuse or not!”
Sunshine Stars vs Ikorodu City
Prediction: Sunshine Stars 1-1 Ikorodu City
It’s South-West derby time as Sunshine Stars host Ikorodu City, with both teams desperate for points. Sunshine Stars are 16th on the log and need a win to climb out of the relegation zone. However, Ikorodu City has impressed in their first season in the top-flight and are in 6th place. This one is tough to call, but a draw seems likely given both teams’ recent form. But in NPFL, you never know!
Heartland FC vs Lobi Stars
Prediction: Heartland FC 2-0 Lobi Stars
Heartland will be looking to bounce back from a frustrating first half of the season. The Naze Millionaires are currently 14th on the table with 22 points and will need to start the second stanza strong. Lobi Stars are sitting in 18th place with just 20 points and have struggled to find their rhythm. Heartland should have enough quality to dispatch Lobi Stars.
Plateau United vs Rivers United
Prediction: Plateau United 1-1 Rivers United
Plateau United will host Rivers United in what promises to be a fascinating encounter. Rivers United, second on the table with 34 points, are in a strong position but cannot afford to slip up against a Plateau side that has been tough to beat at home. After a dramatic 1-1 draw against Rivers in the first leg, expect more of the same here. Akpan doesn’t seem entirely convinced by Rivers’ consistency and has this to say: “Plateau won’t lose; they’re like a stubborn cow—just try moving them!”
Delayed Fixtures:
As for the postponed NPFL week 20 fixtures involving Enyimba, Kano Pillars, Kwara United, and Bendel Insurance, Akpan has a special prediction: “No one knows when these games will happen, but I bet there will be more twists and turns than a snake in a garden maze!” .
Final Thoughts:
Week 20 of the NPFL is shaping up to be a dramatic affair with plenty of twists, turns, and unexpected outcomes. With teams desperate for points and some tough battles ahead, the second half of the season promises to be as unpredictable as ever. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the weekend. SportsRation will surely be there, offering us more witty commentary, and perhaps—just perhaps—a prophetic prediction or two.
Let’s see how close we get this time!
