2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 20: Enyimba Return to Ibadan for Renewed WABIA Derby Battle

Posted : 13 January 2026

As the second round of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season gets underway, attention shifts to Ibadan where Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) will host nine-time champions Enyimba International FC in a fiery WABIA Derby on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

The encounter at the Lekan Salami Stadium marks Enyimba’s first fixture of the second stanza and offers both sides an opportunity to reset their ambitions as the league enters a decisive phase. It is the return leg of Enyimba’s emphatic 3–0 victory over the Oluyole Warriors in Aba during the first round, a result that underlined a strong finish to the opening half of the season for the People’s Elephant.

However, matches in Ibadan are rarely straightforward. Enyimba’s last visit to the ancient city ended in a draw, and 3SC will be determined to exploit home advantage in a bid to restore pride and build momentum in front of their supporters.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Enyimba head coach Lawrence Ukaegbu insisted that previous results would count for little once the game begins. “We want to continue from where we stopped. The win over 3SC in Aba gave us confidence and momentum, and our target is to maintain that level as the second round begins,” he said.

The Aba-based side will be boosted by the return of key players, including winger and joint top scorer from last season Ekene Awazie, defensive reinforcement Emeka Onyema, and Agu Samuel, who is back in contention after recovering from injury.

Ukaegbu also expressed confidence in Enyimba’s tradition of strong second-half campaigns. “Enyimba traditionally explodes in the second round, and this season will not be an exception,” he added.

Beyond local bragging rights, Enyimba are targeting their first away league victory since their win over Bayelsa United in Yenagoa, a result that could reignite their push for continental qualification. For Shooting Stars, the fixture represents a chance to rewrite the narrative, halt Enyimba’s momentum, and energize their season on home soil.

Head-to-Head Record:
Since 2009, the two sides have met 23 times, with Enyimba recording 11 wins, Shooting Stars five victories, and seven draws. While the statistics slightly favor the Aba giants, derby encounters often defy form and numbers.

With the league entering its business end, Wednesday’s showdown promises intensity, pride, and high stakes, as both teams battle for momentum in Ibadan.

2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 20: Enyimba Return to Ibadan for Renewed WABIA Derby Battle

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