Shooting Stars Sports Club will host Warri Wolves in their NPFL matchday 26 fixture this weekend. The game takes place at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta. The Nigeria Premier Football League authorities approved the venue following a directive from the league management body.
The decision followed Shooting Stars’ inspection report on Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan. The club sought permission to continue hosting matches at their traditional home ground. However, the request was declined due to the deteriorating pitch, which is unsuitable for television broadcast.
The league offered the club alternative venues, including Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos and the MKO Abiola Sports Arena. Shooting Stars opted for the latter, making it their temporary home until further approval to return to Ibadan. The relocation poses both logistical and emotional challenges for the club.
Playing away from their usual home may affect fan attendance and on-field familiarity. Despite this, the immediate priority for Shooting Stars remains securing points in a competitive phase of the season. They enter the match winless in their last two games. Currently, the Oluyole Warriors occupy eighth place on the league table with 35 points from 24 matches.
Warri Wolves sit just one point behind in 10th place with 34 points. Their recent form includes two wins, two losses, and a draw. Kick-off is scheduled for 4 pm, with Jahlove Chukwuka as referee. The match will be broadcast live on NPFL Live Propel Sports, AfroSport, and FRCN.
This clash promises an exciting contest as both sides aim to gain momentum in the tightly contested mid-table standings.
