The Nigeria Premier Football League has announced a significant change in its upcoming match schedule. The highly anticipated Oriental Derby clash between Heartland FC and Rangers International, initially slated for Sunday, November 24th, has been rescheduled.
The new date for the thrilling encounter is now Saturday, November 23rd. The venue remains the same, with the Dan Anyim Stadium set to host the intense derby match.
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This Saturday’s Nigerian Premier Football League fixtures promise thrilling matches, but one encounter stands out: the Oriental derby between Heartland FC and Rangers International at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.
Rangers have historically dominated this fixture, winning in the past two seasons. However, with the recent appointment of Emmanuel Amuneke as Heartland’s Technical Manager, the Naze Millionaires may be poised to change their fortunes. Amuneke’s presence could bring a fresh perspective and strategy to the team.
Heartland’s recent form has been impressive, with three wins and one draw in their last four games. Rangers, led by Fidelis Ilechukwu, are also on a hot streak, unbeaten in five games.
In another key match, Plateau United will host Nasarawa United in Jos. This North Central derby takes on added significance, as Plateau United will be playing without their fans for the first of three home games. The absence of their supporters, who often provide a significant boost to the team, may impact Plateau United’s performance.
The team is currently under pressure, having been deducted three points due to crowd violence during their last home game against Rangers International FC. This penalty has dropped Plateau United to 17th place with 12 points. Manager Mbwas Mangut will be eager to secure a win and move his team back up the table.
In Minna, Niger Tornadoes will aim to secure another home win when they face Ikorodu City, who are currently unbeaten in three games and have won their last four home games in Lagos.
Both teams are closely matched, occupying eighth and ninth places on the log with 19 points each. This encounter promises to be an epic battle between two evenly matched teams.
Meanwhile, Bendel Insurance is facing a crisis after the resignation of their head coach, Monday Odigie, following a string of poor results and a three-point deduction due to crowd violence. The Benin Arsenal will face Kwara United without a head coach and are desperate to escape the relegation zone, currently sitting at the bottom of the log with just nine points.
In Katsina, league leaders Remo Stars will face Katsina United at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium. Remo Stars narrowly escaped defeat against Rivers United last weekend and will need to be prepared to fight for every point against the unpredictable Katsina United.
Lobi Stars, led by Technical Director Dan Amokachi, will welcome Kano Pillars to Lafia. Lobi Stars are in dire need of a win, having narrowly lost to Sunshine Stars in their last outing and currently sitting on 12 points from 12 games. Kano Pillars, meanwhile, are eager to recoup lost points after their recent defeat to Heartland FC.
In Ibadan, Shooting Stars will face Bayelsa United, led by under-fire coach Ladan Bosso. A defeat for Bayelsa United could have serious consequences for Bosso and his technical crew. Shooting Stars, managed by Gbenga Ogunbote, are also desperate for a win, as they are only three points above the relegation zone.
In Maiduguri, El Kanemi Warriors will aim to capitalize on Akwa United’s struggles. El Kanemi Warriors are currently fifth in the table with 19 points and could potentially break into the top three if results go their way. With third-placed Enyimba engaged in CAF Confederation Cup duties and fourth-placed Rangers facing a tough test against Heartland, El Kanemi Warriors may see this as an opportunity to gain ground on their rivals.
Rivers United is looking to regain their momentum after a promising goalless draw with league leaders Remo Stars in Ikenne last weekend. This Saturday, they face a crucial test of their resolve as they host Abia Warriors, also known as the Umuchineke Boys, in front of their home fans.
A win in this match is essential for George’s team to rebuild their confidence and get back on track. The home crowd will undoubtedly play a significant role in boosting the team’s morale, and a victory would be a vital step towards reviving their season.
