Old rivals Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan and Enugu Rangers are set to face off on Wednesday evening in a battle for the 2023/24 NPFL title and a coveted spot in next season’s CAF club competitions. The match will air live on StarTimes Beta Sports channel 244, kicking off at 5:30 pm.
Historically, both clubs have been dominant forces in Nigerian football, especially during the 1970s and 1980s, often vying for top honours in the league. This match is a continuation of their long-standing rivalry and promises to be a thrilling encounter.
With a victory, Enugu Rangers will edge closer to securing their eighth NPFL title and their first since clinching their seventh league title in 2016. Currently leading the league table with 64 points, the Flying Antelopes have exerted dominance throughout the season. However, they face a formidable challenge in Shooting Stars, who currently occupy the fourth spot in the standings with 56 points.
The Oluyole Warriors, known for their passionate fan base and never-say-die attitude, will be eager to spoil Rangers’ title aspirations. Shooting Stars will aim to capitalise on their home advantage and secure a win that could significantly impact the final standings and their place in continental competitions.
However, Shooting Stars have struggled against clubs from the Southeast this season, with a record of five losses, one draw, and one win. Their first encounter against Enugu Rangers this season saw the Flying Antelopes secure a 2-0 victory.
The Flying Antelopes have managed to win three games on the road and drawn four times away from home this season. Their ability to perform away from home will be crucial in this decisive match.
The clash between these two storied clubs has always been a spectacle, and this match is no exception. Fans from both sides are expected to fill the stadium, creating an electric atmosphere that will undoubtedly fuel the players’ performances. The Oluyole Warriors’ management has stepped up efforts to ensure adequate security and crowd management for the anticipated large turnout.
Executive Chairman of 3SC, Babatunde Olaniyan Akoro, emphasized the club’s commitment to maintaining order and security.
“We have been on top of the situation since the start of the season. If you notice, there has never been any issue as far as breach of security and crowd trouble in our matches, so for this game, we will do more because of the team (Rangers) involved,” said Akoro.
As the two giants of Nigerian football prepare to clash, the stakes could not be higher. The match promises to be a defining moment in the NPFL season, with both teams vying for glory and a spot in the prestigious CAF competitions.
