Remo Stars’ head coach, Sulaiman Folarin, has declared his team’s strong intention to conclude the first half of the 2025-2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season without suffering another defeat. This ambition comes as they prepare for a challenging away game against Bayelsa United.
The Ikenne-based club enters Matchday 17 with a varied record. They have secured seven wins and one draw, alongside eight defeats, from their 16 league matches so far. Despite this mixed performance, Folarin remains confident in his players’ resolve to finish the first round on a high note.
“Our plan is not to lose any more matches in the first round,” Folarin told the Remo Stars media. “We will go to Bayelsa United and fight hard. We hope to achieve the necessary result.”
The crucial encounter between Bayelsa United and Remo Stars is scheduled for Sunday. It will take place at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa. Both teams are eager to earn valuable points as the league intensity grows.
Rivers United Climb to Second
Elsewhere in the league, Rivers United’s technical adviser, Finidi George, has praised his squad. This follows their hard-fought 2-1 away victory over Plateau United in Jos. The win propelled the Pride of Rivers to an impressive second position on the NPFL table.
Rivers United now boasts 30 points from 15 matches. They remain firmly in contention for the league title. Finidi highlighted his team’s resilience and tactical discipline, especially after a difficult first half.
“It was a significant win,” Finidi commented to Rivers United media after the match. “I felt we struggled somewhat in the first half. In the second half, we pushed harder and pressed higher. This forced them into long balls, allowing us to win second balls. This gave us an advantage, opening up the entire field for us to operate.”
Rivers United will seek to maintain this momentum. Their next league fixture on Sunday sees them host Wikki Tourists.
NPFL Matchday 17 Full Fixtures
Saturday, December 13
Bendel vs Enugu Rangers, 4 p.m.
Sunday, December 14
Plateau United vs Nasarawa United, 4 p.m.
Niger Tornadoes vs El Kanemi Warriors, 4 p.m.
Enyimba vs Kwara United, 4 p.m.
Kun Khalifat FC vs Abia Warriors, 4 p.m.
Rivers United vs Wikki Tourists, 4 p.m.
Bayelsa United vs Remo Stars, 4 p.m.
Barau vs Shooting Stars, 4 p.m.
Warri Wolves vs Kano Pillars, 4 p.m.
Monday, December 15
Ikorodu City vs Katsina United, 4 p.m.