Lobi Stars are poised to strengthen their position at the top of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) standings as they prepare to host Rivers United, who recently reached the quarter-finals of the CAF Confederation Cup.
The highly anticipated week 25 fixture is scheduled for Wednesday, March 13, at the Lafia City Stadium in Nasarawa State.
With the support of their passionate home crowd, Lobi Stars will look to maintain their momentum and widen the gap at the top of the table when they face the challenge of Rivers United in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Wednesday’s clash holds significant importance for both sides, as they boast impressive records as former champions of the NPFL.
Recent Meetings
In their last three league encounters, Rivers United emerged victorious with a 2-1 win in Port Harcourt during the Abridged league season of 2023. However, Lobi Stars retaliated with a 3-2 triumph in the reverse fixture at the new Jos Township Stadium. In the first leg of the current season, Rivers United secured a narrow 1-0 victory, setting the stage for a potential revenge mission by Lobi Stars in the upcoming fixture.
Key Players to Watch
For Lobi Stars, the likes of Sunday Chinedu, Moses Tsehuan, John Victor, Stanley Oganbor, Alao Dabani, Ahmadu Liman, and Suur Kumaga will be instrumental in their quest for a positive result against Rivers United. On the other hand, Rivers United coach Evans Ogenyi will rely on former Lobi Stars players Nyima Nwagua, Endurance Ebidebiri, Mathias Samuel, and Andy Okpe to thwart Lobi Stars’ attacking prowess.
Injury and Suspension Updates
Lobi Stars welcome back Suur Kumaga to the squad after his absence in previous matches, while Harmony Ikande may also feature against Rivers United. However, John Lazarus will serve a suspension and miss the upcoming fixture.
The showdown in Lafia will see two Benue football tacticians, Agagbe and Ogenyi, leading their respective teams from the dugouts, setting the stage for an intense battle between these arch rivals. Football enthusiasts can expect a fiercely contested match as both sides vie for supremacy in the NPFL.
