What to expect in the 2016/2017 NPFL season

Yes, the 2016/2017 Nigeria Professional Football League we have been waiting for kicks off today.

Recall that Rangers International FC won the title last season breaking their 32-year jinx. Coach Imama Amakpakabo and his boys delivered and brought joy to the cathedral.

The team has been fortified for the new season ahead of their continental and local engagement. It can get really busy for Rangers this season, therefore asking for a back-to-back league trophy might be too much.

In the order, Rivers United also battled their way to second spot ahead of privately-owned FC Ifeanyi Ubah who were crowned cup champions and charity cup winners and Wikki Tourists of Bauchi. The clubs will be the cynosure of all eyes this new term having performed done well last season.

For FC Ifenyin Ubah, they need to keep their house in order and stay out of the news over managerial issues. How can you hire a coach who decides to take the exits just after two month in the pre-season due interference in team selection and other undisclosed reasons? That is by the way, the got their coach Rafael Everton back, pre-season is over, let’s get the ball rolling.

The likes of Enyimba who have won the title seven times and Know Pillars will always be title contenders all things being equal. They had an unimpressive show both on the continent and local scene. Just like Chelsea of England, they will be less engaged and would focus more on their league engagement which might be a real deal if the stars decide to to shine.

They got quality! Mfon Udoh and Christian Pyagbara in front while newly acquired Ghana’s first choice goalie will battle Theophilus Afelokhai for number one shirt. Enyimba will go for the tile this season.

Kano Pillars FC is another team that failed to live up to billing last season. The Said Masu Gida have also acquired new legs to push for glory this season. Gambo Mohammed and Rabiu Ali are still there for the Kano side as they have also added relegated Ikorodu United sensation Kabiru to the fold.

It is okay to to call them mid-table occupants; Lobi, Sunshine’s Stars, Akwa United and Shooting Stars. It’s a new season, let’s see what they can pull off, anything can happen.

For those teams that survived the drop both with much fasting and prayers, thanks to Jehovah Rapha. The others with a bit of mathematics and calculation, perhaps there may be need to fasten their seat belts and be ready for another battle.

Enough of Champaign my dear new entrants. Remo Stars, ABS FC, Katsina United and Gombe United let’s get rolling.

Of the four, Remo Stars are the only guys who have not tasted the premiership and would be looking to show the stuff they are made of as the season gets underway. They play fine football but that has to transform to valuable points to see them through.

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