NPFL reschedules Akwa Utd vs Bendel Insurance as CHAN Eagles camp begins

The Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL has announced a rescheduled date for the match between Akwa United and Bendel Insurance FC, originally slated for Sunday, December 8, 2024, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo. The adjustment follows the announcement of the CAF Confederation Cup fixture between Enyimba FC and Zamalek SC of Egypt, set to take place at the same venue on the same date.

The change was communicated in a letter dated December 3, 2024, signed by NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, detailing fixture updates across the league.

Meanwhile, preparations for the 2024 CHAN qualifiers are underway, with the home-based Super Eagles camped in Ikenne, Ogun State. Led by coach Augustine Eguavoen, the team is intensifying training ahead of the two-legged playoff against Ghana later this month. The 32 player squad, including veteran Rabiu Ali, is determined to secure Nigeria’s return to the CHAN tournament, a competition for players based in their home countries. Nigeria last participated in 2018, finishing as runners-up to Morocco in the final.

Editorial

The NPFL’s fixture rescheduling highlights the complexities of managing a football calendar amidst overlapping commitments at both domestic and continental levels. The move to accommodate Enyimba’s CAF Confederation Cup clash is a necessary compromise, reflecting the broader challenge of balancing club and national team priorities in Nigerian football.

This decision also underscores the importance of proper planning in a league striving for consistency and professionalism. While such adjustments are inevitable, their frequency points to the need for a more synchronised football calendar, allowing clubs and players to fully focus on their respective competitions without disruption.

The ongoing CHAN qualifiers add another layer of complexity. With key players absent from league matches due to national team duties, clubs face a weakened squad in critical fixtures. Yet, this scenario also presents opportunities for younger, less experienced players to step up and prove their worth.

As fans, we must recognise the balancing act required to support both club and national team ambitions. A strong showing in the CHAN qualifiers would not only boost the Super Eagles’ reputation but also demonstrate the depth of talent within the NPFL. However, achieving this requires meticulous organisation and unwavering support from all stakeholders.

The rescheduled Akwa United vs Bendel Insurance match is a microcosm of the challenges and opportunities in Nigerian football. It is a reminder of the need for continued investment in infrastructure and strategic planning to ensure that the game thrives at every level.

Did You Know?

1. CHAN History The African Nations Championship CHAN is exclusive to players who ply their trade in their home country’s domestic leagues.
2. Enyimba’s Continental Success Enyimba FC is Nigeria’s most decorated club in international tournaments, with two CAF Champions League titles.
3. Godswill Akpabio Stadium This iconic stadium in Uyo has hosted numerous high-profile matches, including Super Eagles qualifiers and domestic league games.
4. CHAN Qualification Nigeria has missed the CHAN tournament three times since its inception in 2009, most recently failing to qualify for the 2020 edition.
5. Rabiu Ali’s Legacy Veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali is one of the NPFL’s longest-serving players, known for his leadership and playmaking abilities.