NPFL Preseason Tournament to Boost CAF Clubs’ Preparations

The ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Preseason Tournament in Jos, Plateau State, is aimed at helping Nigeria’s representatives in CAF club competitions improve their fitness and match readiness.

NPFL Chief Operating Officer, Prince Davidson Owumi, said the tournament was organised by the NPFL and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to support the clubs as they prepare for the new season and their continental campaigns.

“Considering that our season would be commencing a few days to the CAF Club matches, the NFF and NPFL resolved that it would benefit the clubs to have their players participate in a competitive tournament to further deepen their fitness and cohesion,” Owumi said after Tuesday’s fixture draw.

NPFL champions Rangers International, runners-up Rivers United and Federation Cup winners El-Kanemi Warriors are among the teams taking part in the tournament.

Hosts Plateau United and Mighty Jets received wild-card places, while Katsina United were invited late to replace Shooting Stars.

Owumi said the format was designed to give the clubs playing in CAF competitions at least four competitive matches, from the group stage through to the final.

He also thanked the NFF and Plateau State Government for supporting the tournament.

“We expect the clubs and their players to take advantage of the platform to fine-tune their match preparations and plans going into the competition,” Owumi added.

Rivers United, Plateau United, El-Kanemi Warriors and Mighty Jets featured on Matchday 1 on Wednesday.

On Matchday 2 on Thursday, El-Kanemi Warriors will face Katsina United, while Rangers International take on Rivers United.

The final will be played on Sunday, August 23, with all matches taking place at the New Jos Township Stadium.