NPFL Title Race Heads Into Final Day As League Prepares Two Trophies

According to Ireporter Online, the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) is set for a dramatic conclusion to the 2025/26 season as the title race between Enugu Rangers and Rivers United goes down to the final day, with the league confirming that two trophies will be deployed for the decisive fixtures on Sunday.

Rangers, who are chasing a record-extending ninth NPFL title, will travel to Lagos to take on Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, while closest challengers Rivers United will host Katsina United in Port Harcourt, setting up a tense simultaneous finish to the campaign.

For the first time in over a decade, the league championship will be decided on the final matchday under the traditional league format, with the last similar scenario occurring during the 2023 Super Six playoffs in Lagos, when Enyimba clinched their ninth league crown.

NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi confirmed that elaborate arrangements have been made for either outcome, disclosing that two original trophies have been positioned in both Lagos and Port Harcourt to ensure seamless presentation once the winner emerges.

According to him, both venues are fully prepared for celebration, noting that podiums have been set up in Lagos while similar arrangements are being completed in Port Harcourt, with identical setups in place to guarantee uniformity across both locations.

Owumi explained that unlike several European leagues where trophies are transported between venues on the final day, the NPFL has adopted a dual-venue approach to avoid logistical complications and last-minute disruptions.

Heading into the final round of matches, Enugu Rangers hold a slender one-point advantage at the top of the table, keeping the title race finely balanced.

Full NPFL Matchday 38 fixtures include Enyimba vs El-Kanemi Warriors, Niger Tornadoes vs Shooting Stars, Barau vs Nasarawa United, Warri Wolves vs Abia Warriors, Bendel Insurance vs Remo Stars, Bayelsa United vs Kwara United, Kun Khalifat FC vs Wikki Tourists, Rivers United vs Katsina United, Ikorodu City vs Enugu Rangers, and Plateau United vs Kano Pillars. All fixtures are scheduled to kick off simultaneously at 4pm on Sunday, 24 May.