2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 27 Preview: El-Kanemi Warriors Brace for Crucial Home Battle Against Abia Warriors

Posted : 27 February 2026

Match Day 27 of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League brings a high-stakes encounter to Maiduguri as El-Kanemi Warriors FC welcome Abia Warriors FC to the El-Kanemi Warriors Sports Complex on Saturday, 28th February 2026.

For the hosts, this is more than just another league fixture; it is an opportunity to respond, to regroup, and to reignite their campaign in front of their passionate supporters.

El-Kanemi Warriors, fondly referred to as the Desert Warriors and often associated with the Babagana Umara Zulum-led spirit of resilience in Borno State, are looking to bounce back strongly after their recent setback in Kano.

The defeat served as a wake-up call, but the mood in camp suggests renewed determination and focus.

The emotional atmosphere surrounding the club following the passing of their late Chairman, Ibrahim Mainu Mustapha, adds deeper meaning to Saturday’s clash.

The players are expected to channel that emotion positively as they aim to honour his memory with a spirited and disciplined performance.

Encounters between El-Kanemi Warriors and Abia Warriors have often delivered intensity and drama.

The Maiduguri side will draw confidence from their previous dominant displays:

A 2–0 victory over Abia Warriors in the 2024 President Federation Cup at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, where Nasiru Salisu netted a brace.
A commanding 3–0 triumph on home soil in Maiduguri.

However, Abia Warriors proved their strength in the reverse league fixture at the Umuahia Township Stadium, where they secured victory and reminded the Desert Warriors that this tie is far from predictable.

Saturday’s encounter therefore presents an opportunity for redemption and reaffirmation of home dominance.

With the season entering a decisive stretch, every point matters. El-Kanemi Warriors will be eager to:

Reassert their authority at home
Maintain momentum in the league standings
Deliver a morale-boosting performance for their supporters

Abia Warriors, on the other hand, arrive with ambitions of upsetting the hosts and strengthening their own position on the table. Their ability to stay compact defensively while exploiting counter-attacking chances could shape the contest.

As the sun sets over Maiduguri on Saturday evening, anticipation will fill the air. For El-Kanemi Warriors, it is a moment to stand tall, respond with authority, and remind the league why their home ground remains one of the toughest arenas in Nigerian football.

All eyes now turn to Maiduguri for what promises to be a compelling NPFL showdown.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 27 Preview: El-Kanemi Warriors Brace for Crucial Home Battle Against Abia Warriors

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