The Oluyole Warriors head to Port Harcourt for their Matchday 4 clash against Rivers United at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, looking to put an end to their winless start in the 2025/26 NPFL season.
Form and Context
Shooting Stars enter this fixture after three games without a win. While it’s still early days in the campaign, the pressure is beginning to mount as supporters, management, and the technical team alike are eager to see the side return to winning ways. Head coach Nurudeen Aweroro continues to shape his squad, settling on consistent starters and building chemistry within the group.
Team News – Shooting Stars
The visitors travel with notable absentees due to injuries and illness. Alex Aghahowa is still regaining full fitness. Qamar Adegoke, Sodiq Ibrahim, Desmond, and Joshua Akpan remain sidelined, and the trio of Black Spider – Mustapha Lawal, Kabir Tijani and Agba’a Adams are also unavailable as they recover from illness.
Ozovehe looks set to be favoured in goal, with the backline likely to remain anchored by captain Ghali Falke. In midfield, the leadership of Ayobami Junior and Abayomi will be crucial in dictating play, while Ismail and Nnachi are expected to shoulder the attacking responsibilities.
Team News – Rivers United
The hosts boast quality across the pitch. Goalkeeper Osagie Onisodumeya has been in fine form, while midfielders Omaka Anthony and Aniekeme Okon will look to control the tempo. In attack, Taofeek Otaniyi and Friday Ubong provide directness and firepower, making Rivers United a tough opponent on home soil.
Key Battles
- Falke vs Otaniyi/Ubong: The captain’s defensive leadership will be tested against Rivers’ lively forwards.
- Midfield Control: Ayobami Junior and Abayomi must match the energy and creativity of Omaka and Okon to tilt the game in 3SC’s favour.
- Clinical Edge: Ismail and Nnachi’s ability to convert chances will be pivotal, especially in a fixture where opportunities may be limited.
Expectations
This fixture is set to be a tactical contest. Aweroro will aim for discipline, compactness, and effective counterattacks, while Rivers United will look to dominate possession at home. For Shooting Stars, finding a share of the goals in Port Harcourt, a ground where goals have historically been scarce for the Oluyole Warriors will be vital.
With both sides hungry for points, fans can expect intensity, determination, and potentially goals in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the weekend.
Rivers United vs Shooting Stars SC
NPFL26 – Matchday 4
Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt
September 14, 2025; Kick-off: 4:00 PM