NPFL announces postponement of Match Day 1 fixtures over AFCON qualifiers

Posted : 04 September 2024

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has officially announced the postponement of the highly anticipated 2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 1 fixtures by a week. Initially scheduled to kick off earlier in September, the league management has confirmed that the opening matches will now be played between September 14 and 15. This decision comes as a result of several logistical challenges and scheduling conflicts, particularly related to the international football calendar, which is playing a crucial role in determining the final dates for the NPFL matches.

The NPFL board revealed that the FIFA transfer window has had a significant impact on the original schedule, prompting the need for an adjustment. During this period, Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, will be facing off against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic in a crucial AFCON qualifier. This international fixture has taken precedence, causing the league organizers to reconsider the timing of the domestic matches. The league's decision to postpone the opening games ensures that clubs will not be without key players who are called up for national duty during this period.

According to the NPFL board’s circular sent to all clubs, it was explained that the league will now resume with games scheduled for Saturday, September 14, which coincides with the Super Eagles' matchday. Despite this overlap, the NPFL management has taken steps to ensure that the domestic games do not clash with the national team’s engagement, allowing fans to enjoy both the league and the international fixture. In particular, the rescheduling of the matches reflects the league's commitment to balancing domestic football with Nigeria's international commitments.

One notable change in the calendar is the adjustment of the date for the Lobi Stars vs. Akwa United match. While most of the NPFL fixtures for Match Day 1 will be played on September 14, this particular game has been rescheduled to take place on September 15, 2024. The decision to move this game a day later was influenced by logistical considerations and the need to accommodate both teams' preparation time after the FIFA international break. The NPFL board has worked closely with the clubs to ensure a smooth transition into the new schedule.

The NPFL had already provided a teaser of the 2024/2025 season with the curtain raiser match held between the defending league champions, Rangers International FC, and the winners of the 2024 President Federation Cup, El-Kanemi Warriors. This match, which took place on August 31 at the iconic Nnamdi Azikiwe International Stadium in Enugu, ended in a thrilling draw, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting season. Both teams showcased their readiness for the upcoming season, and the curtain-raiser match generated great excitement among football fans across the country.

However, despite the successful curtain-raiser, the sudden postponement of the league’s Match Day 1 has created anticipation and impatience among the supporters. Many fans are eager to see their favorite teams in action and to witness how the new season will unfold. The postponement, while necessary, has only heightened the excitement for the official start of the NPFL season, as supporters look forward to seeing their teams compete for domestic glory.

The NPFL management remains optimistic that the decision to delay the start of the 2024/2025 season will benefit both the league and the national team. By ensuring that clubs are not deprived of key players during the FIFA window, the NPFL has shown its commitment to supporting the Super Eagles while maintaining the integrity of the domestic competition. As the league prepares for the new start date, the Nigerian football community continues to look forward to another season of high-octane action and drama on the pitch.

NPFL announces postponement of Match Day 1 fixtures over AFCON qualifiers

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