The 2024/25 Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) season resumes this weekend after a three-week mid-season break that began on January 5. The pause allowed clubs to recalibrate and strengthen their squads during the January transfer window as they prepare for the second half of the campaign.
With 19 matches played, the battle for the league title is shaping up, while relegation fears loom large for teams at the bottom of the table.
League Standings at Mid-Season
Remo Stars head into the second half as table-toppers with 36 points, closely followed by Rivers United on 34 points. Shooting Stars, who began the season poorly, now sit in third place with 33 points, overtaking reigning champions Enugu Rangers (31 points) in fourth. El-Kanemi Warriors complete the top five with 29 points.
At the other end, Nasarawa United languish at the bottom with 19 points, trailing on goal difference to Akwa United in 19th. Plateau United and Lobi Stars make up the other relegation-threatened sides in the bottom four.
Fixtures to Watch
The second half promises intense competition across the board. Notable matches include:
- Rangers International vs. Niger Tornadoes: The Flying Antelopes will look to capitalize on home advantage at the Cathedral, Enugu, while Niger Tornadoes will aim to frustrate their hosts with a defensive masterclass.
- Sunshine Stars vs. Ikorodu City: A western derby at the Dipo Dina Stadium, where sixth-placed Ikorodu City will seek to maintain their solid form against a Sunshine Stars team fighting for survival.
- Nasarawa United vs. Katsina United: A high-stakes northern clash in Lafia, with the home side desperate to climb out of the relegation zone.
Mid-Season Standouts: NPFL Best XI
At the halfway mark, standout performances have emerged from players who have left a lasting impression. Here’s Afrik-foot.com’s Best XI:
Goalkeeper:
- Abdullahi (Shooting Stars): A key figure in Ibadan’s resurgence, Abdullahi has conceded just 13 goals in 19 games and kept seven clean sheets.
Defenders:
- Imo Obot (Enyimba): A reliable left-back known for his defensive solidity and attacking runs, with a knack for scoring from free kicks.
- Sodiq Ismail (Remo Stars): A consistent performer with three goals this season, contributing to Remo Stars’ top position.
- Junior Nduka (Remo Stars): As captain, Nduka’s leadership has been pivotal in achieving 11 clean sheets for the league leaders.
- Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Rangers): Known for his physicality and goal-scoring ability, Onyebuchi has helped Rangers maintain one of the league’s best defensive records.
Midfielders:
- Rabiu Ali (Kano Pillars): The veteran midfielder’s creativity and set-piece skills have yielded three goals and four assists this season.
- Blessed Ishaya (Niger Tornadoes): A fan favorite for his brilliant passing and midfield dominance.
Forwards:
- Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United): Despite his team’s struggles, Yusuf leads the scoring charts with 10 goals.
- Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars): The Super Eagles captain has added six goals and three assists, revitalizing Kano Pillars’ season.
- Emmanuel Ogbole (Kwara United): Scorer of seven goals, Ogbole’s pace and finishing have been crucial for his team.
Coach:
- Daniel Ogunmodede (Remo Stars): Ogunmodede’s tactical brilliance has transformed Remo Stars into a title-contending side.
Honorable Mentions
Players who narrowly missed out include Serge Obassa (Remo Stars), Sunday Megwo (Abia Warriors), and Waliu Ojetoye (Ikorodu City), all of whom have significantly impacted their teams’ performances.
As the second half of the season gets underway, fans across Nigeria eagerly anticipate the thrilling contests, standout individual displays, and the race for league glory or survival.
