As we prepare for the 2023 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Championship playoffs in Lagos, ACLSports reached out to a number of journalists for their predictions before things get underway.
The playoffs will see the top six teams in the league this season face off in a round-robin format at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos from June 3rd through to June 11th.
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In Group A, Bendel Insurance surprised everyone and went on to finish the season unbeaten. Remo Stars finished in second place, while Enyimba, who were the winners of the last playoffs in 2019, also made the cut.
Defending champions Rivers United topped Group B ahead of Lobi Stars and Sunshine Stars to seal their spot in the playoffs. The Pride of Rivers also made it to the quarterfinals of the CAF Confed Cup this season and will be one of the favourites for the title. After an impressive run in the league this term, Lobi Stars are in the playoffs, while Sunshine Stars sneaked into the conversation on the final day.
We have had different winners since 2015 and Kano Pillars were the last side to successfully defend the league title they won (2013 & 2014). So, can Rivers United do that? or Will Enyimba be contenders again?
Only Sunshine Stars and Remo Stars are yet to win the league before among the teams, will one of them shock the others to nick their maiden title?
By virtue of the votes received, Enyimba, Rivers United and Remo Stars featured in the top three most – will they represent Nigeria on the continent next season?
Only three journalists think Sunshine Stars will not finish bottom of the tournament on the final day, can the Owena Whales shock them?
In terms of who will win it, Enyimba and Rivers United are favourites with 7 votes apiece, while Lobi Stars and Remo Stars got one each.
Do you agree with them? If you have any other contrary opinion, kindly share your thoughts in the comment section below.
