2025/2026 NNL Match Day 10 Preview: FC Basira, Lobi Stars Set for North Central Showdown in Lafia

Posted : 27 February 2026

Match Day 10 of the 2025/2026 Nigeria National League delivers a mouth-watering North Central derby this Saturday as FC Basira host Lobi Stars in Lafia.

With just a point separating both sides on the table, the encounter carries significant weight in the race for promotion, and the stakes could hardly be higher at this stage of the campaign.

Basira FC eye home response

FC Basira return to Lafia eager to bounce back from a 3-1 defeat away to City FC Abuja. Despite that setback, they remain second on the log and know that victory over their regional rivals would strengthen their grip near the summit.

Playing before their home faithful presents an added advantage, and the hosts will be determined to protect their slim lead over a resurgent Lobi side. Having drawn 1-1 in the reverse fixture earlier this season — with Lobi serving as nominal hosts in Lafia — Basira are fully aware of how fine the margins are between both teams.

A win on Saturday would not only restore confidence but also reassert their promotion credentials.

Lobi’s momentum builds

For Lobi Stars, the journey to Lafia is short in distance but massive in implication.

Fresh from a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over league leaders Doma United in Makurdi, the Pride of Benue have climbed to third place on 14 points — just one behind Basira. That triumph marked their first home outing after returning to Makurdi and showcased renewed belief within the squad.

Under Head Coach John Onuh, Lobi have steadily rediscovered rhythm and structure. The team remains unbeaten in three competitive matches and has displayed improved tactical discipline, particularly in transitions and defensive organisation.

Captain Solomon Kwambe is expected to marshal the backline, with Francis Odinaka alongside him, while the midfield trio of Peter Onah, Bello Egigogo, and Matthew Ajibola will aim to dictate the tempo and provide balance.

In attack, Abdulazeez Tijani and Suur Kumaga are likely to lead the line, supported by Paul Itim and Benjamin Agugu, as Lobi seek a cutting edge in the final third.

Tactical battle in prospect

Given the closeness in the standings and familiarity between both sides, Saturday’s clash promises to be:

Highly tactical

Physically demanding

Decided by moments of precision

With Lafia only a short trip from Makurdi, travelling supporters are expected to create a vibrant derby atmosphere, adding intensity to what already shapes up as a pivotal fixture.

FC Basira: Defend their home turf and maintain their narrow advantage in the promotion race.

Lobi Stars: Close the gap at the top and reinforce their push for a return to elite football.

As the 2025/2026 campaign gathers pace, this North Central duel could significantly influence the direction of the promotion chase.

Saturday afternoon in Lafia is more than just Match Day 10 — it may well be a defining chapter in both clubs’ top-flight ambitions.

2025/2026 NNL Match Day 10 Preview: FC Basira, Lobi Stars Set for North Central Showdown in Lafia

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