2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 29: Abia Warriors, Shooting Stars Set for High-Stakes Clash

Posted : 07 March 2026

The race for continental qualification in the Nigeria Premier Football League gathers momentum this weekend as Abia Warriors FC host Shooting Stars Sports Club in a crucial Matchday 29 encounter at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba.

With the league campaign entering a decisive phase, both sides approach the fixture knowing that victory could significantly strengthen their push for a top-three finish and possible continental qualification.

Currently sitting fifth on the table with 43 points after 28 matches, Abia Warriors will be eager to consolidate their position and widen the gap between themselves and seventh-placed Shooting Stars, who trail by just two points despite having played one game fewer.

The Ibadan-based Oluyole Warriors head into the contest with confidence following a 2–0 victory over Abia Warriors in the reverse fixture earlier in the season at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.

That result remains fresh in the memory of the Umuahia side, who will be motivated to exact revenge in front of their home supporters.

Abia Warriors, however, have struggled for consistency at home in recent weeks. Two wins from their last eight home matches underline the challenge ahead for the Umuahia Warlords, especially after suffering defeat in their last league outing in Maiduguri.

Nevertheless, their recent home victory against Kwara United FC offers a measure of encouragement as they prepare for Sunday’s showdown.

Statistically, the hosts have averaged 0.79 goals scored and 0.71 conceded per match this season, highlighting their disciplined defensive structure but also the need for greater attacking efficiency. Shooting Stars, on the other hand, boast a slightly stronger offensive output, averaging 1.0 goal per game, though they have conceded 1.03 goals on average.

Team news for Abia Warriors indicates that Wilson Elu, Maxwell Kangeshima, and Ayodele Ezekiel remain unavailable, while Augustine Njoku has returned to the squad and could provide a timely boost for the hosts.

With both clubs separated by only two points and chasing the same objective, the clash promises to be fiercely contested. For Abia Warriors, a victory would strengthen their grip on a continental spot, while Shooting Stars will be looking to leapfrog their rivals and revive their own ambitions.

Kick-off for the Matchday 29 encounter is scheduled for 16:00 local time on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba.

2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 29: Abia Warriors, Shooting Stars Set for High-Stakes Clash

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