The Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) returns this weekend with a series of exciting clashes that promise to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
After four eventful weeks, the league has already witnessed some unexpected results, setting the stage for more excitement in the weeks to come.
The NPFL so far
The 2024 NPFL season has been marked by surprising results, with only Remo Stars and Rivers United conceding just one goal each, the fewest in the league.
Meanwhile, Remo Stars, Rivers United, Niger Tornadoes and El-Kanemi Warriors remain undefeated, demonstrating their resilience and determination.
El Kanemi Warriors (PHOTO CREDIT: El Kanemi Warriors FC Facebook Page, Maiduguri)
A total of 77 goals have been scored, with Remo Stars leading the way with seven goals.
Heartland, on the other hand, have conceded the most goals at seven, highlighting their struggles in the early stages of the season under their new coach Emmanuel Amunike.
Four games to watch this weekend
South-South Derby: Rivers United vs. Akwa United
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The south-south derby between Rivers United and Akwa United is one of the most anticipated matches of the weekend.
Finidi George's Rivers United have had a peaceful but impactful run in the league, facing top teams such as Bendel Insurance, Heartland, Lobi Stars and Enyimba.
Enyimba in action Credit EnyimbaFC Page X
Despite their impressive performance, Finidi's men will face a tough test against Akwa United.
Rivers United have never lost to Akwa United in Port Harcourt, winning four of their five meetings.
With Akwa United's recent inconsistent performances that have seen them suffer two consecutive defeats in their last two matches, Rivers United are the favorites to take maximum points in Port Harcourt on Sunday.
Heartland Tornadoes against Niger
The match between Niger Tornadoes and Heartland of Owerri promises to be an intense encounter.
The Tornados have been on top of their game, winning their last two away games and conceding just two goals.
By contrast, Heartland has struggled to find form, losing three of its four games this season and conceding seven goals.
Their previous records show the Tornadoes have never won or drawn in Owerri, losing all four of their previous visits.
Can Heartland redeem themselves and capitalize on the Tornadoes' poor away record in Owerri?
Perfect record at stake in Ilorin
The Remo Stars have won all their league matches this season, but this weekend they face a daunting task in Ilorin, where they have historically struggled.
Kwara United, eager to bounce back from their opening match defeat to the Niger Tornadoes, will look to capitalize on Remo's vulnerabilities.
Remo Stars have never won in Ilorin, losing two and drawing one of their three meetings with Kwara United.
Can the Sky Blue Stars break this spell and maintain their perfect start to the season?
Are the eyes of Ikorodu town bothered by Jos?
Ikorodu City will look to emulate the success of Niger Tornadoes in Jos where the Ikon Allah Boys bagged maximum points against Plateau United.
Ikorodu City Credit IkoroduCityFC X Page
The Lagos-based team must refocus and channel their energy into winning matches to remain relevant in the league.
After four games without a win, Ikorodu City need to rewrite their course and understand that winning games is key to retaining their Premier League status.
From Port Harcourt to Ilorin and even Jos, this weekend's clashes promise to deliver exciting football action as teams battle for NPFL supremacy.