The 2015/16 Nigeria Professional Football League season kicked-off on Saturday, February 20, after about three months recess.
New boys Plateau United set the ball rolling, marking their return to the top flight with a clash against another newly promoted side Niger Tornadoes in Jos.
Eighteen other sides will trade tackle across nine centres on Sunday but all eyes will surely be on defending champions Enyimba who begin their season with a trip to Port Harcourt to face Rivers United.
Here’s a rundown of the Big 4 to watch as Nigeria’s premium football resumes.
- Enyimba
Enyimba FC are again among the favourites, and a very good bet to retain the title. Having finished second in the previous two seasons before their triumph last season, the Elephants have achieved a decent level of consistency to be tagged favourites.
However, Enyimba’s transfer dealings in the off season could turn their solid defensive attribute to a weakness, after the exit of prominent figures in their back line.
- Akwa United
Akwa United are definitely another team who could challenge for the NPFL title. The Promise Keepers, who were crowned last season’s Federation Cup champions, have had fairly impressive transfer dealings with record goalscorer, Mfon Udoh, touted to be the icing on the cake.
Akwa made their intent clear by grabbing an unbelievable away victory in the CAF Confederation Cup which was preceded by top spot finish at the pre-season Super Four tournament.
The Uyo-based side that have experienced Belgian, Maurice Coreman as manager, went a step further by beating Enyimba to the Charity Shield title on Wednesday in Abuja.
- Kano Pillars
If any team are able to seriously challenge Enyimba, three-time champions, Kano Pillars look the best bet. The Pyramid Boys’ attempt at defending their crown was poor last season such that it caused a reshuffle of coaches and players during the season.
The enviable squad put together ahead of last season are now dispersed. The terrifying 11-year unbeaten home record has been put to bed. However, the structure still exists and the massive fan base is unthreatened.
- Sunshine Stars
Last year, there was a reminiscence of the Sunshine Stars’ squad that narrowly missed out on both the CAF Confederation Cup (semi-finals finish) and League title (second-placed finish) in 2011.
The Owena Waves topped the league for 12 weeks last season before missing out on a continental ticket. Retaining a larger chunk of the key players from last year was a failed attempt while a change in the administrative room and back room staff further draws doubt to the strength of their title credentials this season.
Nevertheless, their massive recruitment of quality players will not only serve as replacement, but also a move to ensure a capable squad that will not fizzle out when it matters most.
