Ikorodu City vs El-Kanemi headlines football feast on Matchday 2

By Olusola Adebayo
 
From Lagos to Jos, Port Harcourt to Yenagoa, stadiums across the length and breath of the country, will once again come alive as old rivals and ambitious newcomers in the Nigeria's top-flight division, clash for early advantage on Matchay 2.
 
After a cagey opening weekend in which defenders and goalkeepers ruled supreme, the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), roars back this Sunday with eight tantalizing fixtures.
 
Ikorodu City’s homecoming duel with El-Kanemi Warriors at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos is the marquee attraction.

A first Sunday night spectacle that promises fireworks.

The “Oga Boys,” boasting nine debutants and a new man at the helm in Ali Kandil, held their nerve in Ilorin last weekend to force a goalless draw against Kwara United.

Now, under the floodlights of Onikan, they test their mettle against an El-Kanemi side brimming with confidence after dispatching Bendel Insurance 2-0 in Maiduguri.

History tilts slightly in Ikorodu’s favour; unbeaten in their two NPFL duels with the Warriors, including a memorable 2-0 triumph in this very fixture last season.

Fans will hope for goals, especially with the likely return of Shola Adelani, while Kabiru Dogo’s men spearheaded by Al’amin Umar and Daddy Abdulrahman, arrive with intent, albeit without suspended midfield enforcer Musa Zayyad.

The spotlight doesn’t stop in Lagos. Across the league, NPFL heavyweights are desperate to shake off their opening-day frustrations.

Enyimba, Kano Pillars, Plateau United, and Rivers United all giants with reputations to protect will be back in front of their home faithful, seeking comfort and confidence after stumbling starts.

Enyimba vs Niger Tornadoes (Aba)

Stanley Eguma’s Enyimba are under pressure to make Aba a fortress once again. Tornadoes, buoyant from their opening-day win, will look to repeat last season’s 1-1 drama in this same fixture.

Kano Pillars vs Wikki Tourists (Kano)

Sai Masu Gida, stacked with stars like Ahmed Musa and Rabiu Ali, must rebound from defeat at Abia Warriors.

The visitors, led by former Pillars boss Abdu Maikaba, relish the challenge of silencing the Sani Abacha Stadium, a ground where Pillars fans demand nothing short of victory.

Plateau United vs Katsina United (Jos)

New boss Shola Adegun tasted defeat on his debut, but the Jos faithful will expect a response.

For Katsina United, the omens are bleak: they haven’t scored, let alone won, in six straight visits to Jos.

Rivers United vs Kwara United (Port Harcourt)

In Garden City, Rivers United face Cup holders Kwara United in a clash dripping with history. Finidi George’s men boast a dominant head-to-head record and will look to exploit home advantage.

For Kwara, inspiration must come from last season’s Cup glory if they are to tame the Pride of Rivers.

Other Fixtures to Watch

The weekend’s drama is not limited to the traditional powerhouses. Warri Wolves, surprise winners on the road last weekend, now host Rangers in what promises to be a high-tempo affair.

In Yenagoa, Bayelsa United will aim for back-to-back victories against NPFL newcomers Barau FC, a side led by former Bayelsa boss Ladan Bosso in what will be a sentimental return.

Meanwhile, Nasarawa United must find their rhythm at home to Abia Warriors after a shaky start.

★ MATCHDAY 2 FIXTURES

✓ Saturday, August 30, 2025

Bendel Insurance 1-1 Shooting Stars

✓ Sunday, August 31, 2025

Warri Wolves vs Rangers

Bayelsa United vs Barau FC

Enyimba vs Niger Tornadoes

Kano Pillars vs Wikki Tourists

Plateau United vs Katsina United

Rivers United vs Kwara United

Nasarawa United vs Abia Warriors

Ikorodu City vs El-Kanemi Warriors (5:30pm, Lagos)

✓ Monday, September 1, 2025

Kun Khalifat FC vs Remo Stars

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