NPFL REVIEW: How Newly Promoted Teams are faring after Matchday 5

Since the 2024/25 Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) season kicked off on August 31, fans have been treated to an exciting display of football. The competition has proven fierce among clubs, with each matchday revealing the strengths and weaknesses of teams. After five matches, it’s time to take a closer look at how the newly promoted teams are faring against established clubs in the league.

Heartland FC, led by former Nigerian international Emmanuel Amunike, finds itself in a dangerous position after five matches. With one win, one draw, and three losses, the club currently sits in 16th place on the NPFL table. 

The team secured its first victory of the season in their last match against Niger Tornadoes, the win was a much needed morale booster after a streak of three losses. Heartland’s return to the top flight was facilitated by their compliance with NPFL rules regarding club ownership, filling the slot vacated by Beyond Limits FC. Their promotion was confirmed after meeting the criteria outlined in Rule A5, Article 21 of the NPFL regulations.

In the northern part of the country, El Kanemi Warriors have shown resilience in the early part of the season. With one win and three draws, they have yet to taste defeat, placing them comfortably in 10th position. Their fifth match was postponed due to the flood disaster in Maiduguri, allowing them to regroup and prepare for their upcoming fixtures.

Gaining Promotion after finishing as runners-up behind Nasarawa United in the 2023–24 Nigerian National League (NNL) Playoffs, El Kanemi Warriors bring with them a rich history, which includes their triumph in the Federation Cup in both 1991 and 1992. As reigning Federation Cup winners after defeating Abia Warriors 2:0 in June, they are looking to establish themselves  in the NPFL and build on their early season success.

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On the other end, the Solid Miners have had a mixed start to their season. After five games, they have achieved one win, three draws, and one loss, placing them in 11th position. Their most recent match ended in a frustrating 0-0 draw against Bayelsa United, a result that left head coach Kabiru Dogo disappointed.

“I’m not happy that we couldn’t score. We had chances, but our finishing wasn’t good enough, However, I’m proud of the boys. They were just unlucky today. We perform well away from home, but it’s a different story when we play at home.” Dogo said while speaking to reporters after the game.

Despite the underwhelming start, Nasarawa United have a rich heritage in Nigerian football and are eager to improve as the season progresses. Their performance in the upcoming matches will be crucial as they aim to secure a higher spot on the league table.

In the South western part of the country, Ikorodu United has faced significant challenges in their maiden season of the NPFL. After five matches, the team has yet to secure a victory, recording one draw and four losses, placing them at the bottom of the table in 20th position. Founded in January 2022, Ikorodu United earned their place in the elite league after a successful campaign in the NNL playoffs in 2024.

The club confirmed the resignation of head coach Bright Ozabagbe a few hours ago in a decision that reflects the urgency for a turnaround in performance. While the club promised to announce a new coach soon, fans and players alike will be hoping for a swift recovery to spark a resurgence that could pull the team out of the relegation zone.

As we reflect on the performances of these newly promoted teams after matchday five, it’s clear that the NPFL remains a battleground where history, strategy, and determination collide. 

You can check the full league table standings here. 

Stay tuned here and follow us on our X handle for more NPFL updates as the season progresses.

By Francis Blessing