The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) returns this weekend with a reduced fixture list, but the excitement remains undiminished. While four Nigerian clubs shift focus to continental duties in the CAF Inter-Club competitions, six matches across the country promise fireworks, drama, and crucial points on Matchday 5. From Aba to Ibadan, Yenagoa to Minna, fans can expect battles that could shape the early course of the season writes TUNDE LIADI
With four Nigerian clubs—Rivers United, Abia Warriors, Remo Stars, and Kwara United—on CAF inter-club duty, the NPFL Matchday 5 roster is trimmed down to six fixtures. However, the action promises intensity, with the headline clash set for the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba, where Enyimba host Bendel Insurance.
Enyimba vs Bendel Insurance: Battle of Pride in Aba
The People’s Elephant will be eager to consolidate their position at the top of the table after bouncing back from a home draw against Nasarawa United with a commanding 2-0 victory away to Bayelsa United. Standing in their way is Bendel Insurance, who earned a goalless draw in Aba last season and come into this fixture buoyed by their first win of the season against Niger Tornadoes. For Enyimba, only a home win will be acceptable, while Insurance aim to frustrate their hosts once again.
Shooting Stars vs Kun Khalifat: Do-or-Die for Oluyole Warriors
In Ibadan, Shooting Stars face a must-win situation when they welcome NPFL newcomers, Kun Khalifat FC. The Oluyole Warriors are yet to taste victory this season and remain under pressure after a narrow defeat to Rivers United last weekend. Kun Khalifat, however, finally broke their duck with a 3-1 triumph over El Kanemi Warriors and will fancy their chances against a team struggling for confidence. With the home crowd demanding results, Shooting Stars cannot afford another slip.
Bayelsa United vs Nasarawa United: A Chance for Redemption
Bayelsa United, still reeling from a home defeat to Enyimba, will look to appease their fans when they host Nasarawa United. Coach Monday Odigie faces mounting pressure to inspire a turnaround, but Nasarawa arrive in high spirits after climbing to fifth place with a hard-fought victory over Wikki Tourists. A positive result in Yenagoa could push the Solid Miners further up the table, while defeat for Bayelsa might deepen unrest among their supporters.
El Kanemi Warriors vs Warri Wolves: Searching for Redemption in Maiduguri
El Kanemi Warriors return home after their setback against Kun Khalifat, ready to square off against Warri Wolves. Wolves themselves are unsatisfied after being held to a goalless draw at home by Kwara United. With both teams desperate for three points, expect a fiercely contested affair in Maiduguri.
Niger Tornadoes vs Ikorodu City: Minna Awaits a Standoff
The Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna will witness Niger Tornadoes’ clash with Ikorodu City. Tornadoes, now allowed back home after serving a temporary banishment to Ilorin, will look to replicate their victory over Bayelsa United in their last home fixture before the disappointing last minute collapse in Benin City against Bendel Insurance. But unbeaten Ikorodu City, who secured a goalless draw in the corresponding fixture last season, are determined to stretch their fine start to five matches.
Katsina United vs Wikki Tourists: Northern Derby Showdown
In Katsina, Katsina United will aim for a second home win when they host Wikki Tourists at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium. United are brimming with confidence following back-to-back victories over Plateau United (away) and Kano Pillars (home). Wikki, however, arrive looking to bounce back from their first loss of the campaign against Nasarawa United. With both sides eager to stamp authority, this northern derby promises plenty of drama.
Postponed Fixtures
Due to continental involvement, Barau FC’s clash with Rivers United, Remo Stars’ tie against Kano Pillars, Kwara United’s showdown with Plateau United, and the Oriental derby between Rangers International and Abia Warriors have all been postponed.
