Nigerian football clubs are calling on their supporters to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship during the upcoming Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) fixtures this weekend. In Minna, Niger Tornadoes will host Plateau United at the Bako Kontagora Stadium on Sunday. Ahead of the match, the club’s chairman, Engr. Dada, has specifically appealed to fans to refrain from any acts of violence and to support the team positively.
“I therefore call on our supporters to reiterate that violence has no place in football and should not be perpetrated because it negatively impacts any club found culpable,” Dada stated in a message to the club’s media team. He further referenced a recent NPFL incident that resulted in severe penalties for a club, including a three-point deduction, a stadium ban, and substantial fines, describing it as a significant setback for the team involved.
Meanwhile, in Kano, Kano Pillars are preparing for a crucial encounter against Barau FC at the Sani Abacha Stadium. This match will mark the first-ever NPFL meeting between the two teams. Barau FC currently sits at the bottom of the table with only one win all season, while Evans Ogenyi’s Kano Pillars are 17th with eight points, hoping to reverse their fortunes. Despite their challenges, the atmosphere within the Pillars’ camp remains positive.
“Focused and fired up!” the club posted on . “The Sai Masu Gida continued their intensive training session today as preparations hit top gear ahead of our next NPFL fixture. The energy, determination and team spirit remain high in camp!”
Sunday, October 19 – 4:00 p.m.
- Niger Tornadoes vs Plateau United
- Barau FC vs Kano Pillars
- Enyimba vs Warri Wolves
- Kwara United vs Katsina United
- Bayelsa United vs Kun Khalifat
- El-Kanemi Warriors vs Wikki Tourists
- Shooting Stars vs Abia Warriors
- Ikorodu City vs Nasarawa United
Postponed Fixtures:
- Bendel Insurance vs Rivers United
- Remo Stars vs Enugu Rangers
In related news, the NPFL has imposed a ₦1 million fine on clubs due to incidents involving ball boys and time-wasting tactics. Kano Pillars welcome the return of Auwalu, while Kun Khalifat focuses on survival strategies. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has suspended three referees following controversial decisions in recent NPFL matches. Barau FC has named an interim coach to steer the team through this period.
Kano Pillars have been hit with heavy sanctions as a result of recent incidents. Bendel Insurance has appointed Kennedy Boboye as their new technical adviser. In other NPFL news, Kun Khalifat managed a surprising victory over Enyimba, while Nasarawa United continues to hold the top spot in the league after Matchday 8.
Video evidence has emerged showing bruised players from Shooting Stars following an attack by fans of Kano Pillars. In response, Ahmed Musa has issued a public apology for the incident.
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