Rangers Face Shooting Stars’ Test as NPFL Title Race Intensifies

League leaders Enugu Rangers face a stern test of their title credentials this weekend when they travel to Ibadan to take on Shooting Stars in one of the standout fixtures of Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) matchday 32.

Rangers, unbeaten in their last seven games, will be looking to consolidate their grip on top spot, while 3SC, buoyed by recent resurgence, aim to dent the visitors’ charge in the traditional rivalry clash at the Lekan Salami Stadium.

Elsewhere, Rivers United, who recently surrendered their lead at the summit after a poor run of form, will attempt to reignite their title push when they host bottom-placed Kun Khalifat in Port Harcourt.

The Pride of Rivers have won just one of their last five games, and the pressure is mounting as they seek to reassert themselves in the race.

In Aba, troubled Enyimba will be desperate for only their second win in eight matches when they welcome Abia Warriors in the Oriental derby.

The People’s Elephant sit precariously in the relegation zone, though confidence remains that they can claw their way out. Abia Warriors, however, have been inconsistent under Imama Amapakabo, making the clash unpredictable.

Ikorodu City continue their push for a top-two finish as they host Warri Wolves at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena. The Oga Boys, who let slip a valuable lead last weekend, could climb as high as second if results elsewhere favor them. Wolves, hovering just above the drop zone, will be eager to spoil the party.

Defending champions Remo Stars, under new coach Usman Abdallah, are still searching for their first away win under his tenure. They travel to Maiduguri to face El-Kanemi Warriors after back-to-back home victories lifted spirits. Abdallah’s men remain deep in relegation trouble and need a miracle run to survive.

In Minna, Niger Tornadoes host Wikki Tourists with hopes of pulling six points clear of the relegation zone. Tornadoes have managed just one win in their last nine outings, while Wikki, stuck in the drop zone, are desperate for points to keep their survival hopes alive.

Bayelsa United, just a point above relegation, welcome Kano Pillars in Yenagoa. Pillars have climbed to 14th after a strong run and are unbeaten in their last three matches, but Bayelsa’s precarious position makes them dangerous opponents.

Barau FC, one of the season’s surprise packages, will look to continue their climb when they host Katsina United in Kano. The newly promoted side have impressed in recent weeks, pulling away from danger. Katsina, still searching for their first away win since December, will be keen to end that barren run.