NPFL Week 5 Preview: Top 5 matches and bold predictions

The Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, returns this weekend with a full round of fixtures in Week 5, and fans are in for some cracking encounters across the country. 

From the fierce Southwest Derby between Enugu Rangers and Abia Warriors, to giants Enyimba hosting Bendel Insurance, this matchday promises drama, goals, and high-stakes battles. 

After getting three correct and two perfect predictions last time out, I have picked out the top 5 fixtures you shouldn’t miss for this weekend, complete with quick previews and bold predictions.

Enyimba, the People’s Elephant, are at home where they are usually formidable after a shock win against Bayelsa United away from home. 

Bendel Insurance, though resilient, have struggled away from Benin. This clash pits a continental giant against one of Nigeria’s historic clubs. Expect intensity and tight defending.

Prediction: Enyimba 2–1 Bendel Insurance

The Southwest Derby, also known as the Oriental Derby, always promises fireworks in the Football League, irrespective of the teams involved. 

Rangers are unbeaten at home this season, having taken four points from six, and boast attacking flair. Meanwhile, Abia Warriors can be unpredictable but can also be dangerous.

Local bragging rights add extra spice.

Prediction: Enugu Rangers 2–0 Abia Warriors

Two northern clubs with strong ambitions. Kwara United have been solid at home, while Plateau United just defeated defending champions Remo Stars - a huge confidence boost for the Peace Boys.

Though Plateau are traditionally poor travellers, they have the talent to upset anyone, especially after their first win of the season. The midfield battle will be key- in what could be a tighter game than ever.

Prediction: Kwara United 1–1 Plateau United

Despite a dented aura at home after that unexpected loss to Enyimba, Bayelsa United remain tough to beat at home, feeding off their fans in Yenagoa. 

Nasarawa United are in fine form and have shown they can grind results after taking seven points from a possible nine in their last three outings, including a goalless draw in Aba against Enyimba. 

It could be open with goals on both ends, especially after both sides played a thrilling 2-2 draw when they last met at the same venue. Bayelsa will be desperate to avoid back-to-back losses

Prediction: Bayelsa United 2–1 Nasarawa United

The Lekan Salami Stadium is never easy for visiting teams, but Shooting Stars and their new management have struggled to secure just one point from six games this season. 

Kun Khalifat are newcomers looking to establish themselves, but this test might be too steep against the Oluyole Warriors, who are under pressure to perform, especially at home.

Kun are inexperienced, but 3SC’s poor form makes this fixture less straightforward.

Prediction: Shooting Stars 2–1 Kun Khalifat

 Other big games to watch: El Kanemi vs Warri Wolves, Niger Tornadoes vs Ikorodu City (tight mid-table clash)