Super Eagles potentials listed for Chelle as NPFL season resumes

In continuation of the 2024/25 Nigerian Professional Football League season, matches will resume this weekend across the country after a three week mid-season break which commenced on January 5. The break also marked the opening of the January transfer window which allows clubs to bolster their squads and get ready for the remainder of the season. After reaching the halfway mark, and after 19 games, the race for the title is beginning to take shape. It’s also becoming clear which teams will be battling to avoid relegation.

Remo Stars finished the first half top of the table with 36 points, Rivers United with 34 points are second on the log, while Shooting Stars, who had a poor start to the season, remarkably climbed to third place on 33 points, upstaging the reigning champions Enugu Rangers on 31 points to the fourth place. El-Kanemi Warriors complete the top five spots with 29 points.

At the other end of the table, Nasarawa United sit rock bottom in 20th place, followed by Akwa United, who also have 19 points but a better goal difference than the Lafia-based side. Plateau United and Lobi Stars complete the bottom four.

The return of action will definitely witness intense competition not just among the title contenders but also for those at the basement, who are threatened by relegation.

Defending champions Rangers International of Enugu will welcome Niger Tornadoes at the Cathedral, Enugu in one of the matches expected to light up the competition today. With an eye for the top, the Flying Antelopes will aim for maximum points even as the men from Minna will want to frustrate them with their tight defensive play.

Another fixture to look forward to is that between Abia Warriors and mid-table kings Bayelsa United.

There is also an exciting western derby involving Sunshine Stars and Ikorodu City. Debutants Ikorodu City began the campaign in a whirlwind fashion as they swept to the top at some point. But as the season wore on, the Ikorodu lads found things a bit difficult but still finished the first half of the season at the 6th position in the table, 11 places above Sunshine but separated by 7 points. It will therefore be fight to finish at the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu Ode the adopted home of the Akure club.

Nasarawa United will also host Katsina United in an all northern affair at the Lafia Township Stadium. Action starved fans will be entertained to the best football that can be found in the domestic scene.

A lot is expected from some of the stars that stood out after some exceptional individual performances in the first half of the season who are captured here.

Outstanding players

The halfway point of the season also showcased some exceptional individual performers.

Here are Afrik-foot.com’s picks for the best XI of the NPFL at the halfway mark. They are Super Eagles potentials that coach Chelle may keep an eye on as one of his mandates is to track local players who could have a chance in the senior national teams.

NPFL Best XI

Goalkeeper

Arguably the best goalkeeper of the season so far, Abdullahi’s outstanding saves and shot-stopping ability have been instrumental in Shooting Stars’ resurgence.

Often unheralded, Abdullahi has emerged as a key figure for the Ibadan-based side, helping them climb to third place. They have conceded just 13 goals in 19 games, with Abdullahi keeping seven clean sheets. His performances have cemented his reputation as one of the league’s best shot-stoppers.

Defenders

Imo Obot (Enyimba)

The Enyimba defender has been one of the NPFL’s most consistent players.

Despite Enyimba’s underwhelming season, Obot has shone at left-back, combining defensive solidity with marauding runs down the flanks.

His free-kick ability further sets him apart. He also featured for the Super Eagles B.

Sodiq Ismail (Remo Stars)

Remo Stars’ right-back has continued his fine form from last season, delivering consistent performances.

He has scored three goals for the ‘Sky Blue Stars,’ contributing significantly to their top-of-the-table position.

Ismail’s exploits have earned him a call-up to both the Super Eagles A and B teams.

Junior Nduka (Remo Stars)

As captain of Remo Stars, Nduka has been a pillar of strength at the back, leading his side to 11 clean sheets.

His leadership and commanding defensive displays have been vital in Remo Stars’ success.

Nduka also captained the Super Eagles B team to notable victories.

Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Rangers)

A formidable presence at centre-back, Onyebuchi has been a rock for Rangers this season.

Enugu Rangers take the Lead through Ifeanyi Onyebuchi in the Oriental Derby against Heartland FC

Known for his physicality and tackling, the 24-year-old has helped Rangers maintain the second-best defensive record in the league, conceding only 11 goals.

He has been one of the best defenders in the NPFL for the past three seasons in the NPFL and loves to score goals too.

Midfielders

Rabiu Ali (Kano Pillars)

The veteran midfielder continues to defy age, delivering stellar performances for Kano Pillars.

With three goals and four assists, his creativity and set-piece prowess have made him a fan favourite.

Blessed with a terrific left foot, the 22-year year old has continued to wow fans in Minna and other match centre in the first half of the season and justifies his place in the team.

Forwards

Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United)

Despite Nasarawa United’s struggles, Yusuf has been a standout performer, leading the NPFL scoring charts with 10 goals.

Forwards

Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United)

Despite Nasarawa United’s struggles, Yusuf has been a standout performer, leading the NPFL scoring charts with 10 goals.

His clinical finishing and positional awareness have made him a bright spot in an otherwise difficult season for his team.

With Anas back after national team duties, he might be the tonic Nasarawa United need to fight their way out of the relegation zone.

Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars)

Musa’s return to Kano Pillars has been nothing short of impactful.

The Super Eagles captain has scored six goals and provided three assists in just 13 appearances, starting the season on match-day five against Sunshine Stars.

His individual brilliance, especially in a thrilling 4-3 away win against Enugu Rangers, has been a highlight of the season.

Emmanuel Ogbole (Kwara United)

Ogbole has quietly been one of the NPFL’s most effective forwards, scoring seven goals for Kwara United.

His performances have been crucial in keeping his team afloat, and his efforts have earned him a spot in the Super Eagles B team.

He is blessed with pace and good shooting ability, which should come handy for Kwara United in the second round.

Coach: Daniel Ogunmodede (Remo Stars)

Fresh from leading the Super Eagles B to qualify for the 2025 CHAN tournament, Ogunmodede is our pick for this team of the season at the halfway mark.

He has turned Remo Stars into a household name on the local scene with some swash-buckling football that has seen them top the league table with 36 points scoring 23 goals after 19 matches – the second highest after Ikorodu City’s 25 goals. They won 11 games, drew three and lost five to be the team to beat as the second round has commenced.

Honourable mentions

A lot of players have also done well this season, but only eleven can make it into the starting eleven.

However, there are other players who did well and made it to the substitute bench.

Serge Obassa (Remo Stars), Sunday Megwo (Abia Warriors), Mustapha Ibrahim (El-Kanemi Warriors), Stephen Manyo (Rivers United), Waliu Ojetoye (Ikorodu City), Isaac Saviour (Rangers).