Enyimba Vs. Abia Warriors: Match Preview, Update, Prediction, As Abia Derby Take Centre Stage

It is the opening weekend of the 2020/21 NPFL season, but the clash between the Elephants and the Warriors has been rescheduled until Tuesday, December 29

The new season of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) is finally set to begin today, with matchday one fixtures expected to take place across the country.

One of the clashes likely to interest fans of the domestic league is the often fiercely contested battle for Abia supremacy between Enyimba International FC and Abia Warriors.

While the Abia derby has over the years been fiercely contested between these two sides, two-time African champions, Enyimba have dominated much of the previous outings.

The Peoples’ Elephant have won six of the 11 derby clashes between the two sides.

Three other games have ended in the share of the spoils, while the Warriors have claimed two wins to date.

Team News

Enyimba are advanced in their preparations than many of the other Nigerian teams, having played three CAF Champions League qualifications games already.

Coach Osho’s boys, though, lost 3-0 to El Merreikh in Sudan on Wednesday and could look to vent their anger on their neighbours in the derby tie.

Many don’t know what to expect of Abia Warriors, though.

The Umuahia-based side carried out a massive transfer business and hired former Super Eagles assistant coach Imama Amapakabo, the new head coach.

They could have an ace or two up their sleeves.

Match Update

The 2020/21 NPFL opener against Abia Warriors has been shifted to Tuesday, December 29.

The Abia derby, initially scheduled for Monday, December 28, was moved by twenty-four hours for broadcast reasons.

Venue & Time

The first edition of the Abia derby this campaign will kick off by 4 p.m. inside the sprawling Enyimba Stadium.

It will be the first NPFL fixture to be played at the venue since the 3-0 victory against Sunshine Stars on March 15.

Coverage

In observance of Covid-19 protocols, fans would not be allowed into the Enyimba Stadium to watch the encounter.

Fans can, however, enjoy live coverage of the game on the NPFL.tv app and NTA.

Prediction

Abia Warriors are often a tough nut to crack for any side in the NPFL.

However, with Enyimba’s experience, match fitness, and near invincibility at their home ground, we expect the Aba Elephants to nick this tie.

Tip: Enyimba 2-1 Abia Warriors