NPFL Standings: Insurance to shock Rangers, Enyimba to relegate Sporting Lagos - Celeb preview, predictions

Enugu Rangers have wrapped up the season.

NPFL Standings: Insurance to shock Rangers, Enyimba to relegate Sporting Lagos - Celeb preview, predictions

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 06:44 - 16.06.2024

All you need to know about the NPFL Standings and Matchday 37 fixtures featuring a special appearance from Enyimba media star.

As the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) reaches its penultimate matchday, the title race and relegation battle are heating up. 

Pulse Sports Nigeria caught up with Enyimba's media star David Orji to get his 'hot takes' on some of the key fixtures.

NPFL Matchday 37 Fixtures and Predictions

Enyimba's head of media, David Orji, spoke to Pulse Sports after the team's final training session at the Legacy pitch, Surulere.
Enyimba's head of media, David Orji, spoke to Pulse Sports after the team's final training session at the Legacy pitch, Surulere.
  • Bayelsa United vs Shooting Stars

 A must-win game for Bayelsa United as they fight to avoid relegation while Shooting Stars need a victory to boost their chances of continental football next season. 

Orji is sticking his neck out for Bayelsa to pick up a crucial point against the ambitious Shooting Stars.

Shooting Stars hero Christain Pyagbara (in blue) contest with a Rangers defender.
Shooting Stars hero Christain Pyagbara (in blue) contest with a Rangers defender. (Photo Credit: Rangers_Int't/X)
  • Abia Warriors vs Akwa United

Abia Warriors don't have much to play for, but Orji believes they can upset the visitors Akwa United at their Umuahia Township Stadium.

“They have never won a title except for the Abia State FA Cup, but i will stick out my neck for them against the visitors Akwa United at their not-too-nice Umuahia Township Stadium.”

Will Suleiman Sani continue his fine form for Akwa United in the NPFL?
Will Suleiman Sani continue his fine form for Akwa United in the NPFL?
  • Rangers vs Bendel Insurance

The title-chasing Rangers will be looking to secure the win, but Orji is tipping Insurance to spoil the party for the 'Flying Antelopes' at the iconic Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, also known as 'the Cathedral'.

“I have seen how Fidelis Ilechukwu, the Rangers boss, has been jumping around, but will they finally have the final fist pump?

The Rangers had a packed Cathedral the last time they played at home..
The Rangers had a packed Cathedral the last time they played at home..

“Last time out I was at the Cathedral, I had to scamper for my life - to run for safety - so, if you’re going to Enugu to watch the game, pick an extra pair of shoes - travel light.” 

  • Sunshine Stars vs Remo Stars

In the battle of the 'stars', Orji is confident that the Akure Stars will shine brighter than the visitors from Ikenne, Remo.

Remo Stars were the biggest winners of NPFL matchday 36.
Remo Stars were the biggest winners of NPFL matchday 36. (Photo Credit: Remo/X)

“The last time I was in Akure there was a left-back who almost ended one guy’s career, his name is Taiwo. So, Remo fans, be watchful.”

  • Sporting Lagos vs Enyimba

This is the biggest clash of the matchday, as relegation-threatened Sporting Lagos host the continental-chasing Enyimba. 

Sporting Lagos are condemned to win against Enyimba.
Sporting Lagos are condemned to win against Enyimba.

Orji is backing the 'People's Elephant' to get the job done and relegate Sporting Lagos.

“A lot of people have prayed ‘back to sender’ I wonder if that prayer will be the case for Sporting Lagos. But we’ll see how it goes.

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Also, it is a must-win match for Enyimba if they want to stand the chance of playing on the continent next season and of course, Sporting Lagos aren’t meant for the continent - at least not now.”

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