MATCH PREVIEW
Shooting Stars vs Enyimba FC
We return to Nigeria Premier Football League action in front of our home supporters as we host Enyimba FC at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba. The encounter marks our first fixture of 2026 and the opening game of the second stanza of the NPFL season.
It is a familiar and storied fixture between two of Nigeria’s most historic clubs, with important points at stake as the league resumes after the mid-season break.
Form Guide
We head into this fixture refreshed and re-energised following the mid-season break, determined to make home advantage count. Playing at Adamasingba has consistently brought out intensity, organisation, and confidence in our performances, and we will be aiming to begin the second half of the campaign on a positive note in front of the Ibadan faithful.
After the setback in Aba on Matchday 19, the motivation to respond with a strong performance at home is clear. The focus will be on discipline, control, and purposeful attacking play as we look to turn the tide.
Enyimba arrive in Ibadan buoyed by their recent victory and will pose a stern test. The Aba-based side are known for their physical presence, structure, and tactical discipline, making them a challenging opponent regardless of venue.
Team News: Shooting Stars SC
The mid-season break has helped ease some fitness concerns within the squad, with only a few issues remaining:
Ganiyu Wasiu and Adams Mustapha are sidelined with knocks.
Samuel Okon continues rehabilitation from an Achilles tendon injury.
Gali Falke, Sodiq Ibrahim, and Mustapha Lawal have returned to training and are expected to be available for selection.
Awosanmi Promise will undergo a late fitness test ahead of kickoff.
Alex Aghahowa, Tunde Azeez, and Tijani Kabir are all available and will provide the grit, balance, and midfield stability needed to control proceedings.
Out wide, we will rely on the pace of Ismail Ayodele and the creativity of Ayobami Junior to stretch Enyimba’s defensive shape. Movement and decision-making in the final third will be key.
Mid-season signing Lucky Emmanuel, alongside Qamar Adegoke and Sodiq Ibrahim, are all in contention for starting roles, while Joshua Akpan will be hoping to gain minutes as he continues his return from injury.
Team News: Enyimba FC
Enyimba are expected to line up with a physically strong and disciplined side following mid-season adjustments within their squad. Defender Obichere Wisdom has returned from his loan spell at Kun Khalifat FC, adding depth to their back line.
The People’s Elephant have also strengthened with the additions of Seye Adegbite and Mujeeb Adekunle from Crown FC of Ogbomosho as part of their mid-season refresh under incoming coach Deji Ayeni.
Ezekiel Edidiong remains a key outlet out wide, offering pace and direct running, while Chidera Michael continues to pose a consistent goal threat. At the back, Pascal Eze will be central to their organisation and defensive stability.
Tactical Outlook
Our approach will focus on imposing ourselves early, controlling the tempo, and applying sustained pressure. Compact defending, patience in possession, and smart execution in the final third will be crucial.
Enyimba are likely to remain compact, absorb pressure, and look to exploit spaces on the counter. Physical battles and midfield duels could play a decisive role in how the contest unfolds.
Match Details
Fixture: Shooting Stars SC vs Enyimba FC
Date: Wednesday, 14 January 2026
Kick-off: 4:00 PM
Venue: Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba
This fixture presents an opportunity to start the second stanza of the season with purpose and intensity in front of our supporters. With focus, discipline, and collective effort, we will be looking to make a strong statement at home.
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