The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 3 promises drama this Sunday with two regional derbies set to headline proceedings — the Northwest Derby between Katsina United and Kano Pillars, and the Southwest clash featuring Shooting Stars and Ikorodu City.
At the Muhammed Dikko Stadium, Katsina, all eyes will be on Katsina United as they host four-time champions Kano Pillars.
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Dubbed the Northwest Derby, the fixture remains one of the league’s biggest rivalries, consistently drawing huge crowds with Sai Masu Gida supporters travelling in large numbers.
While previous meetings have been marred by tension, last season witnessed a carnival-like atmosphere as fans from both sides celebrated together.
Katsina United chairman, Surajo Malumfashi, has urged supporters to sustain this spirit of friendship, while assuring that competition will remain fierce but fair.
In Ibadan, the Southwest Derby will see Shooting Stars (3SC) host Ikorodu City at the Lekan Salami Stadium.
Though only their third meeting, the rivalry is already gaining traction.
Their last encounter in Ibadan ended in a stalemate but was overshadowed by crowd trouble, leading to sanctions against 3SC.
This time, added intrigue surrounds key figures switching sides — with former Ikorodu official Tobi Adepoju now Sporting Director of 3SC, and coach Nurudeen Aweroro moving from Ikorodu to lead the Oluyole Warriors.
For Shooting Stars, victory would reaffirm their dominance as a traditional southwest club, while Ikorodu City will seek a statement result built on youthful energy.
It’s even more intrigue as both sides, 3SC and Ikorodu City FC are looking for their first victory of the 2025/2026 season.
Both derbies headline a packed Matchday 3, which also features Remo Stars the defending Champions against the early table toppers Warri Wolves in Abeokuta
Rangers will also host Plateau United as the team teams are looking to score their goal and first win of the season.
Full Matchday 3 Fixtures (Sunday, September 7)
Katsina United vs Kano Pillars
Remo Stars vs Warri Wolves
Kwara United vs Kun Khalifat
Wikki Tourists vs Abia Warriors
Enyimba vs Nasarawa United
El-Kanemi vs Rivers United
Shooting Stars vs Ikorodu City
Tornadoes vs Bayelsa United
Barau vs Insurance
Rangers vs Plateau United
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