With N100 million on the card for the Nigeria Premier Football League champions, the Super Six which will determine the league champions is around the corner.
The NPFL Super Six will see six formidable teams, (3 each from the two abridged groups) battle it out on the field to pick up the three available continental tickets to represent Nigeria in CAF competitions.
The thrilling competition kicking off on Saturday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos promises to showcase the best football talent in the nation and provide fans with unforgettable moments.
Let’s take a closer look at the participating teams:
Rivers United
Coach: Stanley Eguma
Key Players: Nyima Nwagua, Paul Acquah, Ebube Duru, Maurice Chukwu, Temple Emekayi
Finishing top of Group B with 34 points, Rivers United, the defending champions of the NPFL, enter the tournament as the favourites. Known for their attacking prowess and solid defence, the Pride of Rivers boasts a well-balanced squad with a mix of experienced veterans and talented youngsters. With a strong midfield and lethal strikers, they are a force to be reckoned with and will undoubtedly aim to retain their title.
Lobi Stars
Coach: Mohammed Baba Ganaru
Key Players: Joseph Atule, Umar Abba, Kalu Orji, Monday Akile, Daniel Emmanuel
Shoe Get Size, known for its lightning-fast counterattacks and skilled wingers, is considered one of the most exciting teams in the tournament. With 30 points at the end of the regular season, the North Central team with the capability to penetrate any opponent’s defence will rely on their creative midfielders and clinical finishers making them a formidable opponent capable of causing upsets.
Sunshine Stars
Coach: Edith Agoye
Key Players: David Onovo, Samson Olasupo, Michael Olalusi, Yusuf Ibrahim, Mustapha Ibrahim
With 27 points, Sunshine Stars sealed qualification to the Super Six on the last match day of the regular season with a better goal difference. Sunshine Stars’ dynamic style of play, combined with their goal-scoring prowess, makes them a dangerous team capable of causing trouble for their opponents. Edith Agoye’s side will be considered the dark horse of the tournament.
Bendel Insurance
Coach: Monday Odigie
Key Players: Tanimu Benjamin, Divine Nwachukwu, Sunday Anyawu, Sarki Ismael, Imade Osarenkhoe
The Invincible Insurance finished top of the Group A table with 34 points. The Benin Arsenal are renowned for their disciplined gameplay and tactical approach. With a strong defensive line and midfielders who excel in ball control, the newly promoted Insurance possesses a remarkable ability to control the tempo of the game. Expect them to rely on their cohesive teamwork and strategic plays to make their mark in the competition. As two-time champions of the top-flight league, the unbeaten side will be set to make history as they have shown they are ready to give all it takes.
Remo Stars
Coach: Daniel Ogunmodede
Key Players: Nduka Junior, Olanrewaju Kayode, Adebayo Abayomi, Andy Okpe, Franck Kwame
Remo Stars, a rising force in the domestic league, earned their spot in the tournament through consistent performances finishing second, their highest in the Nigerian top-flight. Led by their inspirational captain Nduka Junior and a formidable midfield, the Sky Blue Stars play an attractive brand of football. Daniel Ogunmodede’s team’s youthful energy and hunger for success could prove to be their greatest assets as they look to upset the established teams in the competition.
Enyimba
Coach: Finidi George
Key Players: Chikamso Okechukwu, Olorunleke Ojo, Chijioke Akuneto, Chijioke Mbaoma, Chukwuemeka Obioma
Enyimba, eight-time winners of the Nigeria Premier Football League will be considered as a tournament favourite despite qualifying by a mere whisker on the final match day. With a solid defensive line and midfielders who excel in breaking down opposition plays, they possess the ability to frustrate their opponents. Scoring 25 goals and conceding only 12 in the regular season, the People’s Elephant’s strong team spirit and resilient mindset make them a team that cannot be underestimated.
As the NPFL Super Six unfolds, fans and supporters can expect intense battles, stunning goals, and nail-biting moments. The tournament promises to be a thrilling affair as these six teams compete to earn the honor of representing the country in CAF competitions.