The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has reached the halfway mark, and after 19 games, the race for the title is beginning to take shape.
It’s also becoming clear which teams will be battling to avoid relegation.
Remo Stars are currently top of the table with 36 points, the same as Rivers United, but ahead on goal difference. Shooting Stars, who had a poor start to the season, have remarkably climbed to third place.
Reigning champions Rangers occupy fourth place, while El-Kanemi Warriors round out the top five.
At the other end of the table, Nasarawa United sit rock bottom in 20th place, followed by Akwa United, who also have 19 points but a better goal difference than the Lafia-based side. Plateau United and Lobi Stars complete the bottom four.
The halfway point of the season has also showcased some exceptional individual performances.
Here are Afrik-foot.com’s picks for the best XI of the NPFL at the halfway mark.
NPFL Best XI
Goalkeeper
Mustapha Lawal (Shooting Stars)
Arguably the best goalkeeper of the season so far, Abdullahi’s outstanding saves and shot-stopping ability have been instrumental in Shooting Stars’ resurgence.
Often unheralded, Abdullahi has emerged as a key figure for the Ibadan-based side, helping them climb to third place. They have conceded just 13 goals in 19 games, with Abdullahi keeping seven clean sheets.
His performances have cemented his reputation as one of the league’s best shot-stoppers.
Defenders
Imo Obot (Enyimba)
The Enyimba defender has been one of the NPFL’s most consistent players.
Despite Enyimba’s underwhelming season, Obot has shone at left-back, combining defensive solidity with marauding runs down the flanks.
His free-kick ability further sets him apart. He also featured for the Super Eagles B.
Sodiq Ismail (Remo Stars)
Remo Stars’ right-back has continued his fine form from last season, delivering consistent performances.
He has scored three goals for the ‘Sky Blue Stars,’ contributing significantly to their top-of-the-table position.
Ismail’s exploits have earned him a call-up to both the Super Eagles A and B teams.
Junior Nduka (Remo Stars)
As captain of Remo Stars, Nduka has been a pillar of strength at the back, leading his side to 11 clean sheets.
His leadership and commanding defensive displays have been vital in Remo Stars’ success.
Nduka also captained the Super Eagles B team to notable victories.
Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Rangers)
A formidable presence at centre-back, Onyebuchi has been a rock for Rangers this season.
Known for his physicality and tackling, the 24-year-old has helped Rangers maintain the second-best defensive record in the league, conceding only 11 goals.
He has been one of the best defenders in the NPFL for the past three seasons in the NPFL and loves to score goals too.
Midfielders
Rabiu Ali (Kano Pillars)
The veteran midfielder continues to defy age, delivering stellar performances for Kano Pillars.
With eight goals this season, including four from free-kicks, Ali remains a creative force in midfield.
His contributions have kept Kano Pillars within touching distance of the NPFL leaders.
Jide Fatokun (Remo Stars)
Fatokun has been a powerhouse in the middle of the park for Remo Stars.
Renowned for his work rate and defensive abilities, he has been crucial in breaking up opposition attacks and launching counters.
His performances earned him a place in the Super Eagles B team.
Papa Daniel (Niger Tornadoes)
Daniel has been a revelation for Niger Tornadoes, establishing himself as one of the season’s standout players.
With three goals and four assists, his creativity and set-piece prowess have made him a fan favourite.
Blessed with a terrific left foot, the 22-year year old has continued to wow fans in Minna and other match centre in the first half of the season and justifies his place in the team.
Forwards
Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United)
Despite Nasarawa United’s struggles, Yusuf has been a standout performer, leading the NPFL scoring charts with 10 goals.
His clinical finishing and positional awareness have made him a bright spot in an otherwise difficult season for his team.
With Anas back after national team duties, he might be the tonic Nasarawa United need to fight their way out of the relegation zone.
Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars)
Musa’s return to Kano Pillars has been nothing short of impactful.
The Super Eagles captain has scored six goals and provided three assists in just 13 appearances, starting the season on match-day five against Sunshine Stars.
His individual brilliance, especially in a thrilling 4-3 away win against Enugu Rangers, has been a highlight of the season.
Emmanuel Ogbole (Kwara United)
Ogbole has quietly been one of the NPFL’s most effective forwards, scoring seven goals for Kwara United.
His performances have been crucial in keeping his team afloat, and his efforts have earned him a spot in the Super Eagles B team.
He is blessed with pace and good shooting ability, which should come handy for Kwara United in the second round.
Coach: Daniel Ogunmodede (Remo Stars)
Fresh from leading the Super Eagles B to qualify for the 2025 CHAN tournament, Ogunmodede is our pick for this team of the season at the halfway mark.
He has made Remo Stars into a household name on the local scene with some swash-buckling football that has seen them top the league after 19 matches.
Remo Stars are top of the table with 36 points at the halfway mark, scoring 23 goals – the second highest after Ikorodu City's 25 goals.
They won 11 games, drew three and lost five to be the team to beat when the second round commences.
Honourable mentions
A lot of players have also done well this season, but only eleven can make it into the starting eleven.
However, here are other players who did well and make it to the substitute bench.
Serge Obassa (Remo Stars), Sunday Megwo (Abia Warriors), Mustapha Ibrahim (El-Kanemi Warriors), Stephen Manyo (Rivers United), Waliu Ojetoye (Ikorodu City), Isaac Saviour (Rangers).
