The 2024/25 Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) season is nearing its climax, with Remo Stars holding a commanding eight-point lead in the title race. Following a setback against Bendel Insurance in Week 28, Remo Stars bounced back with a 2-0 victory over Heartland in Ikenne, bringing their tally to 57 points.
Rivers United, in second place with 49 points, lead the chase for CAF Champions League qualification, while defending champions Enugu Rangers and Ikorodu City sit third and fourth, respectively, with 45 points each. Abia Warriors, also on 45 points, occupy fifth place on goal difference.
With just a few games left, Remo Stars are in pole position for their first-ever league title, barring an unexpected collapse. However, the fight for the remaining continental slots remains fierce, as any of the teams from second to eighth place could secure a ticket to Africa.
The league’s runner-up will join Remo Stars in the 2025/26 CAF Champions League, while the third-placed team will compete in the CAF Confederation Cup. Shooting Stars and Kano Pillars, both on 43 points in sixth and seventh place, as well as eighth-placed Enyimba, remain in contention if results favor them.
Enyimba, unbeaten in their last four games, were close to an away win against Ikorodu City in Lagos but conceded a 98th-minute equalizer, sharing the spoils. Meanwhile, Rivers United secured a crucial 2-1 away win over El-Kanemi Warriors in Maiduguri, keeping their continental aspirations alive.
Enyimba coach Stanley Eguma admitted that the draw against Ikorodu City was a setback but insisted his team would keep fighting for a CAF slot. "We take it one game at a time. Every match is tough, but we remain optimistic," he said.
Enyimba will face Bayelsa United at home on Sunday as they push for a late surge up the table. Before then, they will play El-Sharma FC in the President Federation Cup Round of 64 today.
Elsewhere, league leaders Remo Stars will visit Lobi Stars in Enugu, while Bendel Insurance host Sunshine Stars in Benin. Plateau United take on Kano Pillars in Jos, and Nasarawa United welcome Enugu Rangers to Lafia.
Other fixtures include Kwara United vs. Akwa United in Ilorin, and Shooting Stars hosting Niger Tornadoes in Ibadan, a must-win clash for their continental hopes.
