Leaders face tough task in Minna

On Sunday, Enugu Rangers visited Niger Tornadoes at the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna for the Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday 13. As league leaders, Rangers lead the table with 24 points from 11 matches, two points ahead of Kano Pillars, who have 13 matches played. In their recent match, Rangers secured a 1-0 victory over Kwara United at Awka last Sunday, thanks to a goal in the 40th minute.

Meanwhile, Bendel Insurance, now third with 21 points, lost 2-1 away to Shooting Stars on Friday night. If Rangers were to win in Minna, it would further solidify their lead. The Flying Antelopes have a solid away record with seven wins, three draws, and one loss from their 11 games, giving them a goal difference of plus seven. However, away from home, they have only managed two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five games.

Niger Tornadoes currently sit 11th with 16 points from 12 matches, having won four, drawn four, and lost four games, with a goal difference of zero. Their impressive home record at the Bako Kontagora Stadium has kept them from a lower position, with three wins and three draws. They arrived in Minna after a 2-1 defeat to Bendel Insurance in Benin City, where John Taiwo scored the winning goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

Given their current position and home advantage, Tornadoes will be looking for a convincing win to showcase the strength of their home ground.