Prediction: Remo Stars to win NPFL title in 2025
As part of a prediction series for the new year 2025, Nsikakabasi Akpan is tipping Remo Stars Sports Club of Ikenne to emerge as the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions. After two seasons of finishing as runners-up, the time has come for Remo Stars to finally claim the title they so richly deserve. With consistent form and a squad brimming with talent, I believe this could be their year to make history.
The Ikenne-based outfit has shown remarkable progress in recent years, and their performances this season have put them in a great position. Under the guidance of their astute head coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, Remo Stars has established themselves as one of the strongest sides in Nigerian football. They are currently holding a two-point lead over their closest rivals, Rivers United, at the halfway stage of the season.
Remo Stars boasts an impressive lineup, with players like Nduka Junior, Kayode Bankole, Sodiq Ismail, and Jide Fatokun all in fine form. These key figures have been central to the club’s rise to the top, and it is their performances that have helped the team to maintain their position at the summit of the NPFL.
However, there is a twist to the plot. In February 2025, Remo Stars will face a significant challenge as several of their star players, including coach Ogunmodede, Nduka Junior, Kayode Bankole, Sodiq Ismail, and Jide Fatokun, will be representing Nigeria at the African Nations Championship (CHAN). While this could temporarily disrupt their momentum, it could also open the door for other contenders, notably Rivers United, to capitalize on the absence of key figures and close the gap at the top.
Rivers United, managed by the experienced Finidi George, has been outstanding this season and will certainly be a formidable force. Their impressive first half of the season has positioned them as the main challengers for the title, and they will undoubtedly take advantage of Remo Stars’ absence during CHAN. That said, Remo Stars have already proven their mettle, and despite the potential setback, I firmly believe they have enough quality to weather this storm and still come out on top by the end of the season.
Other teams, like Shooting Stars of Ibadan and defending champions Rangers International FC of Enugu, also pose a threat. Shooting Stars has been in fine form recently, while Rangers ended 2024 with a morale-boosting win over Niger Tornadoes. However, it is Remo Stars’ consistency and desire for the title that gives them the edge in this season’s race.
Currently, as the league breaks for the mid-season, Remo Stars leads the table with 36 points, ahead of Rivers United with 34 points. Shooting Stars, with 33 points, and Rangers International FC with 31 points, round out the top four, indicating that it will be a thrilling race to the finish.
Remo Stars’ squad depth, tactical discipline under Ogunmodede, and strong team unity make them the team to beat in the second half of the season. With the likes of Nduka Junior and Kayode Bankole leading the charge, alongside the solid defensive partnership in place, the Ikenne side is primed for a historic title challenge.
So, while the competition remains fierce and there are many capable teams, I am backing Remo Stars to claim their first-ever NPFL title in 2025. This is a team that has consistently been knocking on the door, and after two close calls, it’s their time to break through and lift the trophy.
