Matchday 12 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL26) sees Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) head to Enugu for a showdown against Rangers International. The fixture is set for Sunday, November 9, with kickoff scheduled for 4:00 PM at the iconic Nnamdi Azikwe Stadium, also known as The Cathedral.
This encounter brings together two of the league’s most storied clubs in what promises to be a contest filled with intensity, quality, and history.
Recent Form & Motivation:
The Oluyole Warriors are aiming to bounce back after a 1–1 home draw against Katsina United on Matchday 11. Despite dominating possession and carving out multiple chances, the team couldn’t find a winner. Coach Nurudeen Aweroro and his side will look to turn their attacking intent into maximum points on the road.
Rangers currently 13th on the table, also come off the back of a draw, having battled to a stalemate against El-Kanemi Warriors. Under Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, the Flying Antelopes have built a solid reputation at home, with quick transitions and a structured approach that makes them tough to beat at The Cathedral.
Team News:
Shooting Stars will monitor a few fitness concerns ahead of the trip:
- Samuel Okon remains doubtful after his knock against Wikki Tourists.
- Promise Awosanmi and Ayodele Ismail are also nursing injuries and may face late fitness tests.
- Joshua Akpan is nearing full recovery but might not be match-fit yet.
- Alex Aghahowa has returned to full team training.
- On the bright side, Desmond Ojietefian is back in contention and could make the matchday squad.
Despite these knocks, the squad remains balanced and dangerous going forward. Ekeocha Chukwudi, who netted his first goal for the club last time out, will aim to build on that momentum. The duo of Qamar Adegoke and Sodiq Ibrahim add pace and movement in the final third, while midfielders Tunde Azeez and Tijani Kabir are expected to anchor the team’s rhythm and transitions.
The Opponent:
Rangers will rely on striker Godwin Obaje to lead the line, with fullback Kalu Ogbonda offering both defensive cover and attacking width. Chidiebere Wisdom brings energy and balance in midfield, ensuring a smooth link between defense and attack. The Flying Antelopes will likely adopt a fluid attacking approach, especially on home turf, while being mindful of 3SC’s threat on the break.
Tactical Outlook:
Shooting Stars: Expect a disciplined, compact setup focused on frustrating Rangers and hitting on the counter. Quick transitions, wide movement, and well-timed set pieces could prove decisive. Midfielders will play a crucial role in linking up both ends of the pitch.
Rangers FC: Likely to dominate possession, using overlapping fullbacks and sharp midfield control to stretch 3SC’s defensive line. They’ll try to control the game tempo and apply sustained pressure while pressing high to limit 3SC’s counter opportunities.
Current Form Snapshot:
- 3SC: Unbeaten at home so far but looking to rediscover their edge away. The last two matches (a loss and a draw) have shown promise but also exposed the need for more decisive finishing.
- Rangers: 13th on the table, difficult to beat at home and consistently organized under Ilechukwu’s leadership.
A win on the road would be a huge confidence boost for Shooting Stars as the team look to regain momentum in the NPFL. After a loss and a draw in their last two matches, the Oluyole Warriors will be eager to return to winning ways.
Match Info
- Fixture: Enugu Rangers vs Shooting Stars SC
- Venue: Nnamdi Azikwe Stadium, Enugu
- Date: Sunday, 9th November 2025
- Time: 4:00 PM