Warri Wolves head coach Napoleon Aluma has expressed confidence ahead of a pivotal Super 8 playoff clash with Crown FC, set for Thursday at Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba. The encounter forms a crucial part of their campaign to secure promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Speaking after a final training session, Aluma acknowledged Crown FC’s calibre but emphasised his squad’s preparedness “Crown FC are a good side … we are highly motivated and understand what is at stake. This isn’t the first time we’ve found ourselves in such a position, and I believe we’ll get the job done tomorrow”.
He also conceded the absence of suspended veteran Efe Yarhere but affirmed depth as their strength. He thanked the Delta State Sports Commission chairman for exceptional backing: “He has created an enabling environment for us to thrive, and we hope to reward him with a place in the NPFL”.
The Southern Conference standings are tight: Osun United lead on four points, with Warri Wolves just behind on goal difference. Crown FC sit at the bottom with one point from two matches.
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Earlier in the Super 8 series, Warri Wolves bounced back from a 1–0 opening defeat to Osun United by thumping Kun Khalifat FC 3–0, with forward Jude Ebhohon scoring twice. A victory over Crown FC would guarantee promotion for Warri Wolves to the NPFL for the 2025–26 season.
Editorial
We see this moment as a defining one for both Warri Wolves and Delta State football. They stand on the cusp of returning to Nigeria’s top tier, and Aluma’s confidence is more than mere bravado it reflects months of steady preparation and community support. The coach’s belief in his squad’s depth, even without Yarhere, speaks volumes about how far the team has matured.
The Super 8 isn’t just another tournament bracket it’s a crucible where ambition meets reality. If Warri Wolves can convert this opportunity into success, it will be a testament to sustained strategy, resilience in adversity, and unwavering backing from state structures. Their emphatic 3–0 win over Kun Khalifat proves they’re capable of responding when the pressure builds.
We urge everyone involved—administrators, fans, sponsors to double down on their support. Promotion is not the finish line but the foundation for a sustained future in the NPFL. This endeavour matters to the city, the supporters, and the aspiration of Delta State football. We stand alongside Warri Wolves as they chase their place among Nigeria’s elite.
Did You Know?
- Warri Wolves were relegated from the NPFL in 2021 but surged undefeated through the first half of the 2024–25 NNL season.
- The Super 8 playoff features the top two teams from each NNL conference; only the finalists gain automatic promotion.
- Delta State Sports Commission chairman Onoriode Oborevwori has publicly praised the Wolves, highlighting state-level investment since early 2025.
- Coach Napoleon Aluma holds a CAF ‘B’ licence, trained in Brazil and attended coaching clinics in France; he was appointed Wolves boss in late 2024.
- Warri Wolves play at the 20,000‑capacity Warri Township Stadium and are fondly known as the ‘Seasiders’.
