Who will win the Nigeria Premier Football League title this season
With just eight matches left in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for the 2023/2024 season, the race for the coveted title has reached a critical stage.
As teams jostle for position, let’s take a closer look at the top six contenders and their chances of lifting the trophy.
THE TOP-SIX AHEAD OF MATCHDAY 30
1. Enugu Rangers (51 points)
Enugu Rangers currently sit at the top of the table with 51 points from 29 matches. With a solid defensive record and a positive goal difference, Rangers have shown consistency throughout the season. Their recent form, with three wins and two draws in their last five matches, suggests they are serious contenders for the title – the favourites ahead of matchday 30.
2. Lobi Stars (51 points)
Level on points with Enugu Rangers, Lobi Stars are hot on their heels. With a similar defensive record but a slightly inferior goal difference, Lobi Stars have also been consistent performers. However, they need to maintain their momentum in the remaining matches to edge ahead in the title race. They have been up there all season.
3. Remo Stars (49 points)
Remo Stars are not far behind the top two, trailing by just two points. With 49 points from 28 matches, they have the potential to close the gap and challenge for the title. Their recent form has been encouraging, with three wins in their last five matches, indicating that they are genuine contenders.
4. Enyimba (48 points)
Enyimba, a powerhouse in Nigerian football, are currently in fourth place with 48 points. Despite a strong defensive record, they have struggled with inconsistency recently, as reflected in their win-loss-win-loss pattern in their last five matches. However, with just three points separating them from the top spot, Enyimba cannot be counted out. They are the reigning champions and so will give everything to keep the title in Aba.
5. Plateau United (47 points)
Plateau United are also in contention for the title, sitting in fifth place with 47 points. With a potent attacking force and a positive goal difference, they have the ability to turn matches in their favor. However, their recent form, with two losses in their last five matches, may hinder their title aspirations.
6. Shooting Stars (46 points)
Shooting Stars have emerged as dark horses in the title race, currently occupying sixth place with 46 points. Their recent resurgence, with three wins in their last five matches, has propelled them into contention. With just five points separating them from the top spot, Shooting Stars could spring a surprise in the final stretch of the season.
Preview of Matchday 30 Fixtures:
- Enugu Rangers vs. Abia Warriors: Enugu Rangers will look to maintain their lead at the top with a victory against Abia Warriors.
- Remo Stars vs. Doma United: Remo Stars will aim to close the gap on the leaders with a win against Doma United. Anything apart from victory will see them further ground in the race and so Coach Daniel Ogunmodede and his boys will go out battling for victory – but this is a Doma United team on a revival grind after winning their last away game vs Akwa United in Uyo.
- Enyimba vs. Heartland: Enyimba will seek to bounce back from recent setbacks with a crucial win against Heartland. It is a derby and so will not come without intense on and off-field fireworks. Enyimba seek the points for their title race while Heartland are in serious danger of relegation. Huge game with key consequences in Aba.
- Bendel Insurance vs. Kano Pillars: Bendel Insurance will face a tough test against Kano Pillars as they look to climb up the table. Both teams have not enjoyed a good ride recently and so will seek points to avoid a surprise relegation battle.
- Bayelsa United vs. Katsina United: Bayelsa United will hope to secure three points against Katsina United to boost their position on the log.
- Sporting Lagos vs. Sunshine Stars: Sporting Lagos will aim for a victory against Sunshine Stars to improve their standing in the league. Both teams are struggling at the wrong end of the standings.
- Akwa United vs. Niger Tornadoes: Akwa United will target a win over Niger Tornadoes to keep relegation survival hopes alive. Anything aside victory will be dangerous for the former Nigeria Premier Football League champions.
- Rivers United vs. Plateau United: Rivers United will face a stern challenge against Plateau United as they aim to move up the table. After their continental exit, Rivers United will shift attention to the domestic scene and that starts vs a very trickish clash against Plateau United.
- Shooting Stars vs. Lobi Stars: Shooting Stars will look to close the gap on the leaders with a win over Lobi Stars in a crucial clash. Both teams are in the title race and could do themselves huge favour with maximum points here.
With the title race heating up and just eight matches remaining, every point matters for the top contenders. As the season reaches its climax, expect twists and turns as the battle for the NPFL title intensifies.
