NPFL 2024/25: Remo Stars Safe as Relegation Battle Heats Up with 5 Matches to Go

NPFL 2024/25: Remo Stars Secure Safety as Relegation Battle Intensifies with Five Matches Left.

The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) 2024/25 season is entering its decisive stage, with just five thrilling matches remaining for each team. This weekend marks the resumption of action-packed fixtures across the country, and only one club, Remo Stars, can confidently say they have avoided the dreaded relegation battle.

While Remo Stars remain firmly in the safe zone with their consistent performances this season, the rest of the NPFL clubs are locked in an intense fight to secure their top-flight status. The competitiveness of the league this term has made it one of the most unpredictable seasons in recent years, with several mid-table teams still mathematically within reach of relegation and European spots alike.

At the bottom of the table, it appears almost certain that Lobi Stars are destined for the drop. The Makurdi-based club, plagued by a turbulent season marred with managerial changes and internal struggles, have managed only a handful of victories in their 33 games so far. Their hope of survival would now require an almost impossible turnaround, as they sit rock-bottom and face an uphill task in their remaining fixtures.

In one of the standout clashes of the weekend, 7th-placed Kano Pillars, boasting 47 points, will host former champions Enyimba International FC. The Aba-based side, currently occupying 9th position with 46 points, will be desperate to bounce back into contention for a continental slot after an inconsistent run of form in recent weeks.

Another critical fixture sees Lobi Stars face Enugu Rangers, who surprisingly fell 0-2 to Heartland FC in their last outing. The Flying Antelopes are currently in 8th place, level on points with Enyimba. Rangers will need to recover quickly if they are to avoid getting sucked into the late-season scramble for survival.

Elsewhere, Katsina United, sitting precariously in 16th position with 41 points, will tackle high-flying Abia Warriors. The Umuahia-based outfit are enjoying one of their best-ever seasons, currently 3rd on the log with 55 points, and are eyeing a possible leap over Rivers United, who occupy 2nd spot with 56 points. Abia Warriors will be keen to compound Katsina United’s woes as they chase a historic continental qualification.

Saturday’s fixtures are scheduled to kick off at 4 pm across various league centers, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating weekend of Nigerian top-flight football.

Sunday’s action is equally packed with must-win matches for several sides battling to avoid relegation. El Kanemi Warriors will host Ikorodu United, while Niger Tornadoes face a tricky encounter against Bayelsa United. Heartland FC, buoyed by their impressive away win over Rangers, will look to build on that momentum when they take on Kwara United. Both sides are eager to steer clear of the danger zone.

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One of the most pivotal matches of the weekend will be the Easter Day clash between Plateau United and Akwa United. Both teams, uncharacteristically struggling this season, are desperate for points to escape the relegation trap. A defeat for either side could drag them deeper into trouble with just a handful of matches remaining.

Another major encounter will see Rivers United square off against Sunshine Stars. Rivers United, chasing the league title and eager to consolidate their 2nd-place position, must be cautious against Sunshine Stars, who have a reputation for pulling off shock results when least expected, particularly in relegation dogfights.

In the eagerly anticipated Western Derby, Shooting Stars of Ibadan will lock horns with Remo Stars. While Remo Stars have already secured their NPFL status and remain one of the most consistent teams this season, Shooting Stars will need to dig deep to claim maximum points in front of their home fans.

Meanwhile, Bendel Insurance, popularly known as the Benin Arsenal, will aim to avoid a second consecutive defeat when they take to the pitch this weekend. A win will be crucial for their ambitions of finishing in the top half of the table.

The 2024/25 NPFL season is shaping up to be a near replica of last season’s dramatic climax, with fans, clubs, and analysts applauding the league management body for noticeable improvements in match officiating, club organization, and overall competitiveness.

As the countdown continues with five matchdays to go, football lovers across Nigeria and beyond can expect nothing short of fireworks as teams battle for survival, continental slots, and the coveted NPFL trophy.