The 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season wraps up this Sunday, with all eight games set to kick off simultaneously.
The title has already been decided, and the continental tickets claimed, but there’s still plenty to play for, especially at the bottom end of the table.
Remo Stars were officially crowned champions last weekend, a historic first for the Ikenne-based club.
Their consistency and style across the season were unmatched, and they’ll finish at the summit regardless of Sunday’s results.
However, while the celebrations are underway at Remo, other clubs are fighting tooth and nail to avoid the drop.
Relegation has already claimed Lobi Stars and Sunshine Stars. That leaves two more spots to be filled, and six clubs are still in danger.
The margins are tight, and the calculators are out as teams scramble for survival in what promises to be a nail-biting end to the season.
Here’s a closer look at some of the biggest matchups on Matchday 38, especially those with major relegation implications.
This Sunday…#NPFL25FinalDay#NPFL25 pic.twitter.com/ZgJtFLRepb
— NPFL (@NigeriaPFL) May 23, 2025
NPFL Match day 38 selected predictions
Heartland vs Akwa United – Owerri
This is as tense as they come. One point separates Heartland and Akwa United, with the Owerri side sitting 17th on 45 points and Akwa just below them in 18th on 44. It’s not just a relegation battle—it’s a straight shoot out.
A win for either side could be enough to survive, depending on other results. A draw helps no one. Heartland have the slight edge at home, but nerves will be stretched all afternoon.
The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the crowd in Owerri will feel every pass, tackle, and chance.
Prediction: Heartland to edge it, possibly by a single goal.
Kwara United vs Katsina United – Ilorin
Kwara United are safe in 12th place and have had a decent campaign, especially with their run to the President Federation Cup final.
They will be playing with freedom in front of their home fans, hoping to close out the season on a high.
Katsina United, however, can’t afford any slip-ups. Sitting 15th on 46 points, they are two above the drop but with a worse goal difference than a few of the teams below them.
A loss in Ilorin, combined with wins elsewhere, could send them back to the NNL.
Prediction: Kwara United win, but expect Katsina to fight hard.
So we were thinking 🤔
WHO WOULD CROWN AS #NPFL25 PLAYER OF THE SEASON?
– Obassa Adeniyi (Remo Stars): 15 clean sheets to help win 1st ever trophy in debut season
– Anthony Ijoma (Abia Warriors) : 12 goals to help Abia Warriors qualify for continent for the very first time… pic.twitter.com/Ol0bEuqi27
— NPFL Tori Podcast (@NpflTori) May 20, 2025
El-Kanemi Warriors vs Sunshine Stars – Maiduguri
On paper, this looks like a home banker.
Sunshine Stars are already down and have little more than pride to play for. But that’s exactly why they might be dangerous.
El-Kanemi Warriors, meanwhile, are 16th with 46 points. A win could save them, but anything less may not be enough.
They have struggled to turn home advantage into points this season, and that inconsistency could haunt them here.
The Maiduguri faithful will be hoping for one last big push from their team to end the season.
Prediction: El-Kanemi Warriors to win by at least two goals.
This Sunday…#NPFL25 #NPFL25FinalStretch pic.twitter.com/ZsjYl460Bt
— NPFL (@NigeriaPFL) May 9, 2025
Niger Tornadoes vs Kano Pillars – Kaduna
Tornadoes have managed to save themselves from relegation by the skin of their teeth. They are 14th on 48 points and from the others games lined up this weekend, they are assured of another season in the NPFL.
Kano Pillars are also safe in 7th place and will be looking to finish the season strong. They beat Tornadoes in the reverse fixture and will aim to do the double.
Tornadoes must approach this with urgency, but it won’t be easy against a solid Pillars side.
Prediction: Draw, with Tornadoes doing just enough to stay up.
Bayelsa United vs Remo Stars – Yenagoa
Remo Stars have already won the league, but they will hope to close it out with a win against Bayelsa United, who defied odds to remain in the top flight
The Yenagoa side lost away at Akwa United put with 49 points, they are relatively safe from relegation as Ladan Bosso mastered a great escape.
A home win against the champions might just be the tonic they need to close out a difficult season for them.
Prediction: Bayelsa United to grab a point, maybe more.
As the NPFL season comes to a dramatic close, fans across the country will be glued to their radios, TVs, and mobile updates.
For some clubs, it’s a chance to finish strong. For others, it’s about survival. Whatever happens, Sunday promises to be a day of high drama in Nigerian football.
