NPFL matchday two predictions: Key fixtures and analysis
As the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) heads into matchday two, fans are set for another weekend of intense football action. SportsRation correspondent Nsikakabasi Akpan presents predictions, key fixtures and analysis.
After an eventful Matchday One, which saw defending champions Rangers FC held to a goalless draw by newly promoted El Kanemi Warriors and Enyimba secure an impressive 3-1 win over Heartland, teams are eager to build momentum. Here are predictions for some key Matchday Two fixtures.
RESULTS
Remo Stars 1-0 Sunshine Stars
Remo Stars continued their perfect start after a 2-0 away win against Abia Warriors. The Ikenne-based side were tipped to take all three points against Sunshine Stars, who also began their season on a high with a 3-0 win over Bayelsa United. Remo Stars’ attacking threat, combined with their disciplined defence, did just enough to secure victory.
Rivers United 3-1 Heartland FC
Rivers United were held to a 0-0 draw by Bendel Insurance on Matchday One, but they return to their home ground to face a Heartland side that struggled in their opening fixture against Enyimba. Rivers United’s firepower and tactical discipline under coach Finidi George proved too much for Heartland, despite the Owerri-based side’s efforts to recover from their 3-1 defeat.
Akwa United vs Abia Warriors
Prediction: Akwa United 2-1 Abia Warriors
Akwa United had a quiet start to the season but are expected to come alive in front of their home fans at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium. Abia Warriors will be eager to bounce back after their 2-0 defeat to Remo Stars, but Akwa United’s experience and home advantage should help them edge this contest, possibly by a single goal margin.
Bayelsa United vs Kano Pillars
Prediction: Bayelsa United 1-1 Kano Pillars
Kano Pillars kicked off their return to the NPFL in style with a commanding 3-0 win over Ikorodu City, and they look set to continue their strong form when they visit Bayelsa United. Bayelsa struggled in their opening fixture, losing 3-0 to Sunshine Stars, and they will face a tough test against the Pillars, who seem ready to reclaim their status as one of the league’s top sides. I am predicting a 1-1 draw.
Niger Tornadoes vs Nasarawa United
Prediction: 1-1 Draw
Niger Tornadoes pulled off an impressive 2-1 away win against Kwara United on Matchday One, while Nasarawa United played out a 1-1 draw with Shooting Stars. Both teams will be full of confidence, and this game is expected to be closely contested. A draw seems the most likely outcome, with both sides sharing the spoils.
Katsina United vs Bendel Insurance
Prediction: Katsina United 0-0 Bendel Insurance
Bendel Insurance, fresh from holding Rivers United to a goalless draw, will head into this match short of confidence. Katsina United, meanwhile, suffered a 1-0 loss to Plateau United in their opening game. Looks like a draw.
Shooting Stars vs Plateau United
Prediction: Shooting Stars 1-2 Plateau United
Shooting Stars played out a 1-1 draw with Nasarawa United on Matchday One, while Plateau United secured a 1-0 victory against Katsina United. Plateau United are one of the most disciplined sides in the league, and despite Shooting Stars’ home advantage, Plateau could take all three points in a closely fought match.
