The 2022/23 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Super 6 playoffs have been a fierce competition with two rounds of matches completed so far at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena. The contest for claiming the title and continental spots is as stiff as the matches that have been witnessed so far.
Match-day three offers a chance for the early leaders to extend their lead while the slow starters fight to revive their challenge. Here is a rundown of the matches to be played on match-day three.
Bendel Insurance vs Enyimba (2pm)
Bendel Insurance is set to put their unbeaten credentials to the test against eight-times champions Enyimba in the first contest of match-day three. Having both qualified from Group A in the regular season, the fixture will be the third meeting between both sides, with Insurance boasting of a win and a draw in their previous two meetings.
However, Insurance’s fortunes have changed lately as they have only won one of their last 10 league games. They will need to beat Enyimba to have a chance of winning the league or even qualifying to play on the continent.
On the other hand, Enyimba sit joint-top of the Super 6 table with four points from two matches. A win for them will see their quest to win their ninth league title stay on track, while a different result will open up the race depending on the outcome of other matches.
Sunshine Stars vs Remo Stars (4:30pm)
The southwest derby between Sunshine Stars and Remo Stars is expected to be a must-win game for both teams if they hope to revive their chances in the playoffs. Remo Stars has been plagued by hard luck in the Super 6, earning two dramatic draws so far. They have played their most challenging games and will need to push themselves over the line with the remaining three fixtures.
Sunshine Stars, on the other hand, is the least fancied of the six teams and will aim to make something out of nothing. Coach Edith Agoye remains optimistic about their chances.
Lobi Stars vs Rivers United (7:30pm)
Rivers United was ecstatic with their 2-2 draw against Remo Stars in the last match. The character they displayed to score a stoppage-time equalizer was commendable and shows why they are primed to defend their title. The joint-top team with four points in the Super 6 will need to follow up this result with a win against Lobi if they aim to stake their claim for the title.
Lobi Stars are currently bottom of the Super 6 table with just one point. They have failed to capitalize on their chances and will aim to show grit if they hope to get anything out of this fixture. Nonetheless, Coach Baba Ganaru believes that there are three more matches to go, and things can still change for the Makurdi side.
In conclusion, match-day three offers an opportunity for teams to book a favorable position in the Super 6 playoffs. Fans can expect a thrilling contest of skills and tactics as each team pushes for a favorable outcome.
