Team News – Kun Khalifat

Kun Khalifat are expected to rely on a mix of physical presence and energy across the pitch. Ekebuike James leads the line as the centre forward, providing a focal point in attack. In midfield, Chikamso Amaefula plays a key role in linking play and driving the team forward.

Defensively, Sunday Adehi anchors the backline, while Hassan Olubode offers pace and width as one of their attacking outlets.

Team News – Shooting Stars

We head into this fixture with a few injury concerns, but head coach Nurudeen Aweroro still has a strong and competitive squad to select from.

Joshua Akpan and Austin Onyeamachi are unavailable due to illness, while Adams Mustapha, Sodiq Ibrahim, and Alex Aghahowa are nursing knocks. Samuel Okon continues rehabilitation from an Achilles injury, and Awosanmi Promise has been rested and will sit out this fixture.

Ganiyu Wasiu has returned to training as he recovers from his knock.

The matchday squad is bolstered by key personnel. Ayobami Junior plays a pivotal role in midfield, while Tunde Azeez and Tijani Kabir are also expected to feature prominently in that area.

With Sodiq Ibrahim sidelined through injury, attacking responsibilities will likely fall to Alade Balogun and Lucky Emmanuel, both named in the travelling contingent.

New signings Namapele James, Timitimi Ineikade, Charles Ribannu, Emmanuel Ohiobe, and Tamuno Kalio are also expected to be in contention for the matchday squad.

Outlook

Kun Khalifat will likely adopt an aggressive approach, pressing high and committing numbers forward, particularly in the early stages. Their ability to capitalize on set-pieces and second balls could prove decisive if Shooting Stars are not fully switched on.

Shooting Stars have shown growing cohesion in recent outings, with improved organisation across all departments. The team is expected to balance defensive solidity with quick attacking transitions, especially on the counter.

It is a clash of contrasting ambitions, one side fighting to avoid the drop, the other pushing for continental contention. It promises to be an intriguing encounter where 90 minutes will tell the story.

Match Details

Date: Sunday, 8 February 2026
Time: 4:00pm
Venue: Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri