Excitement is in the air for players and fans of the Nigeria Professional Football League as they eagerly await the release of fixtures for the upcoming 2023/24 season. According to a report by The PUNCH, the fixtures are scheduled to be unveiled on Tuesday (today).
A notable change this season is that the NPFL is kicking off in September, a departure from the usual pattern of starting a decade-long tradition in August and concluding in May, in line with the international football calendar.
Initially slated to commence on August 26, the start date of the incoming season was postponed by two weeks to September 9. The Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the NPFL, under the leadership of Gbenga Elegbeleye, made this decision. The delay is attributed to the necessity of implementing, testing, and providing training for personnel who will oversee the operation of newly acquired AI cameras. These advanced cameras will be utilized to live-stream league matches on a digital platform during the forthcoming season.
The stage is set for the draws of the upcoming season, which will take place in Abuja today. Coinciding with this event is the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the IMC. Against this backdrop, players are eagerly embracing the challenges that lie ahead.
Vincent Akpikpi, the captain of the recently promoted team Sporting Lagos, shared his enthusiasm about entering the NPFL. He remarked, “We’ve been through the pre-season phase, but the real action is what we’re waiting for. The NPFL is renowned for its competitiveness, but we have faith that our collective team efforts will drive us toward our goals. While I won’t speculate about the first opponent, we’re prepared to face any team that comes our way.”
Azeez Falolu, a midfielder for Katsina United, echoed the sentiment, stating, “Our participation in the Naija Super 8 offered us valuable insights into what to anticipate. Katsina United holds a significant position not only in the northern region but also within the NPFL. Our return to the league is a source of joy, and our training intensity has recently escalated to ensure we’re fully equipped to compete once again.”
With the NPFL season drawing closer, the fervor among players and fans is palpable, as they eagerly await the unveiling of fixtures and the commencement of another exciting football journey.
