Defending champions Rivers United and record title holders Enyimba of Aba are poised to
secure qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup in today’s Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) Championship play-off matches held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan.
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Both teams currently hold four points each from two matches, and victories in their
respective games would take them to seven points. Such a tally would be difficult for trailing teams to surpass with only two matchdays remaining in the competition.
Enyimba kicks off the day’s proceedings with an anticipated encounter against Bendel Insurance at 2:00 p.m. This match will be followed by Remo Stars versus Sunshine Stars at 4:30 p.m., while the final game features Rivers United against Lobi Stars, commencing at 7:00 p.m.
The NPFL Championship play-off offers three continental tickets, with the first and second-placed teams qualifying for the CAF Champions League, while the third-place finisher secures a Confederation Cup ticket.
Enyimba previously drew 2-2 with Remo Stars on the opening day, while Rivers United
triumphed over Sunshine Stars with a 1-0 victory. Bendel Insurance and Lobi Stars played
out a goalless draw.
On the second day of the competition, Remo Stars held Rivers United to a 2-2 draw,
Enyimba defeated Lobi 1-0, and Bendel Insurance secured another draw, this time against
Sunshine Stars.
A win for either Sunshine Stars or Lobi Stars would provide hope for a possible continental
ticket if they can emerge victorious in their remaining two games.
According to statistics provided by IMC Media, a total of 12 goals have been scored thus far in the championship, with Remo Stars accounting for four of them through their two draws.
Lobi Stars are yet to find the back of the net, while Enyimba and Rivers United have each
scored three goals while conceding two.
In an announcement made by the NPFL Championship Playoffs organizers, it was revealed that starting from Friday, fans would be required to pay for entry into the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, the venue for the competition. Musical shows will also commence on the sidelines, adding entertainment value to the football matches.
The introduction of music alongside the football matches aims to enhance the appeal of the NPFL brand, particularly among the large youth population. Notable artists such as Mohbad and Brymo are scheduled to perform on the sideline stage during the event.
Access to the VIP extension will now require a fee of N2,000, while popular terraces will
require a fee of N1,000. Entry to the VIP Box will be strictly by invitation, limited to individuals with official access tags.