2024/2025 NPFL Matchday 3 preview and predictions
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) 2024/2025 season is heating up as Matchday 3 approaches, with plenty of thrilling encounters on the horizon. With two matches already played, Rivers United and El-Kanemi Warriors have set the pace with important away victories. Here is a preview and prediction for the remaining fixtures:
Sunday, September 22, 2024
Plateau United vs Niger Tornadoes
- Venue: New Jos Stadium, Jos
- Kick-off: 3pm (Live on StarTimes & NPFL-Live)
Preview: Plateau United will look to build on their solid start to the season, having earned a point on the road in their last fixture. Niger Tornadoes, on the other hand played a goalless draw in their last home game. Playing at home, Plateau United will aim for a dominant performance against a Tornadoes but must be wary of a team that won away on matchday one.
Prediction: Plateau United 2-0 Niger Tornadoes
Kwara United vs Ikorodu City
- Venue: Kwara State Stadium, Ilorin
- Kick-off: 5:30pm (Live on StarTimes & NPFL-Live)
Preview: Kwara United will need to be more clinical in front of goal. Ikorodu City, newly promoted, are still adjusting to life in the top flight. This encounter will test their mettle as they face an experienced Kwara United side looking to get their first home win of the season.
Prediction: Kwara United 1-0 Ikorodu City
Sunshine Stars vs Abia Warriors
- Venue: Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode
- Kick-off: 4pm
Preview: Sunshine Stars will be determined to bounce back from their narrow defeat to Remo Stars. Abia Warriors in their last game held Akwa United to a 1-1 draw in Uyo. This fixture promises to be closely contested, with both teams looking to climb up the table.
Prediction: Sunshine Stars 1-1 Abia Warriors
Kano Pillars vs Remo Stars
- Venue: Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina
- Kick-off: 4pm (Live on NPFL-Live)
Preview: Kano Pillars have shown consistency and remain a strong force at home. Remo Stars have had a flying start to the season, currently unbeaten with two wins from two. This match will be a real test of their credentials as they face the hostile atmosphere.
Prediction: Kano Pillars 1-2 Remo Stars
Heartland vs Katsina United
- Venue: Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri
- Kick-off: 4pm (Live on NPFL-Live)
Preview: Heartland will be eager to recover from their 3-1 loss to Rivers United. Katsina United, on the other hand, have found their rhythm after a win against Bendel Insurance. This match is expected to be closely fought, with both teams evenly matched.
Prediction: Heartland 2-2 Katsina United
Wednesday, October 2, 2024
Rangers vs Bayelsa United
- Venue: Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu
- Kick-off: 4pm
Preview: Rangers will be looking to capitalize on home advantage as they face Bayelsa United, who have had a mixed start to the season. Both teams are known for their attacking prowess, and this fixture promises goals and excitement.
Prediction: Rangers 3-1 Bayelsa United
Bendel Insurance vs Shooting Stars (3SC)
- Venue: Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City
- Kick-off: 4pm
Preview: Bendel Insurance narrowly lost to Katsina United last week, while Shooting Stars have also struggled to get maximum points. Both sides will be hungry for a win to kick-start their season.
Prediction: Bendel Insurance 1-1 Shooting Stars
Enyimba vs Akwa United
- Venue: Enyimba Stadium, Aba
- Kick-off: 4pm
Preview:Â Akwa United have shown promise but have not been able to close out games. This match is expected to be a tough battle, with Enyimba aiming to assert their dominance at home.
Prediction: Enyimba 2-1 Akwa United
With four live matches on StarTimes and NPFL-Live, fans are in for another exciting round of NPFL action. The match officials are tasked with ensuring fair play across all the games as the season continues to unfold.