NIGER TORNADOES VS SHOOTING STARS SC

FORM & MOMENTUM

Shooting Stars head into this fixture with confidence and momentum following recent positive performances, including a President Federation Cup victory that secured qualification to the Round of 32. The team has continued to show resilience, discipline, and attacking quality in the closing stages of the season.

The Oluyole Warriors currently sit 3rd on the NPFL table with 60 points and know that a positive result in Minna could prove decisive in the race for the top positions. After a consistently competitive campaign, Shooting Stars will be determined to finish on a strong note.

Niger Tornadoes, however, will pose a difficult challenge as they battle to avoid relegation on the final day. The hosts sit 18th with 45 points and will be desperate for victory in front of their supporters. Despite going winless in their last five league matches, recording three draws and two defeats, Tornadoes remain a physically competitive side, especially at home.

TEAM NEWS – NIGER TORNADOES

Niger Tornadoes are expected to rely on a direct attacking approach built around striker Ismail Sarki, whose strength, pace, and aerial ability make him a constant threat.

Abdul Rasheed Dabai offers danger from wide areas with his pace and dribbling, while Abdul Azeez Dalhatu provides creativity in midfield. The hosts are also expected to target crosses and second-ball situations.

TEAM NEWS – SHOOTING STARS

Ahead of the final game of the season, the Oluyole Warriors are managing a few injury concerns but are buoyed by recent national team call-ups.

Ruled Out:

• Qamar Adegoke (Osteoarthritis)
• Samuel Okon (Achilles tendon)
• Adams Mustapha (Tibia and fibula)

Doubtful:

• Alade Balogun remains a late fitness concern after sustaining an injury during the Federation Cup.

Gali Falke, Awosanmi Promise, and Ganiyu Wasiu have returned to training and are available for selection.

There was also positive news earlier in the week as Tijani Al-Ameen and Ayobami Junior earned call-ups to the Super Eagles squad for the Unity Cup, reflecting the team’s strong performances this season.

The midfield setup is expected to remain consistent with Stephen Amos and Tijani Kabir, while Ekeocha Chukwudi, Olaoke Olajobi, and Charles Ribanu are all in contention for the matchday squad.

In attack, Lucky Emmanuel, Sodiq Ibrahim, Joshua Akpan, and Austin Onyemaechi remain key options, bringing pace and attacking threat in the final third.

FINAL OUTLOOK

As the NPFL 2025/2026 season reaches its conclusion, both sides head into this encounter with plenty on the line.

Shooting Stars will be aiming to finish strongly and sustain their continental push, while Niger Tornadoes face a must-win situation in their battle against relegation.

With contrasting objectives and high stakes, fans can expect an intense and fiercely contested final-day showdown in Minna.

MATCH DETAILS

Fixture: Niger Tornadoes vs Shooting Stars SC
Venue: Bako Kontagora Stadium, Minna
Date: Sunday, May 24, 2026
Kickoff: 4PM