Remo Stars Are Leading the Pack, But the NPFL Title Race Is Far From Over

The 2024–25 Nigeria Premier Football League campaign is entering its most critical phase. With most teams having played 33 matches, only five games remain for clubs to define their season — whether it's a push for the title, a fight for continental spots, or a desperate scramble to avoid relegation.

At the top of the table, it’s Remo Stars who are setting the pace. The Sky Blue Stars, who finished as runners-up last season, have taken a commanding lead in this year’s title race. With 62 points from 33 matches, they sit seven points clear of second-placed Rivers United and are inching closer to what would be a historic first league title.

Their rise is more than just a feel-good story — it's a statement. Promoted to the Nigeria Professional Football League in 2021, Remo Stars have gone from newcomers to genuine contenders in just a few short seasons. Winning the title would cap off a remarkable journey and firmly establish them as one of Nigeria’s football powerhouses.

As tension builds, so does interest from fans and punters alike. Betting activity around Remo Stars and Rivers United has surged, with more Nigerians turning to online platforms to back their favorites. For those looking to get in on the action, Betano is currently running a special promotion, available through the Betano promo code, giving fans a chance to improve their matchday experience.

Home Comforts Fuel Remo Stars' Title Charge

Remo Stars currently sit at the summit of the NPFL table. The Sky Blue Stars have built their campaign on near-perfect home form — 15 wins and two draws at Ikenne means they’re yet to lose a match on home soil this season. Their 47-point haul at home is unmatched across the league and this is what makes them the favorite of the betting fans to go all the way this season.

This dominance in Ikenne has formed the bedrock of their title push, giving head coach Daniel Ogunmodede’s team an edge. However, their away record — just 15 points from a possible 48 — leaves room for doubt, especially as the title race tightens.

Still, Ogunmodede remains calm under pressure.

“We are still on top of the table. We have fifteen more points to fight for,” he said after a pair of frustrating draws against relegation candidates Lobi Stars and Katsina United. “This is football. It’s not draught. It’s not like other sports... We are prepared.”

Rivers United Still in the Hunt

Rivers United, sitting second with 55 points, are close enough to make things interesting. Finidi George’s side has recovered from a mid-season slump that saw them win just once in eight games. Despite a recent 2–0 loss to Abia Warriors, the former Super Eagles manager isn’t panicking.

With three of their final five matches at home, George believes his side can close the gap. “This is a critical time where you don’t take things for granted,” he said ahead of their next match against Sunshine Stars. “We are playing at home next, so we’re going to win at home.”

Rivers United also hold the best away record in the league, having claimed 16 points on the road — a slight edge that could prove decisive if Remo Stars stumble again.

Continental Battle Intensifies

Just behind the top two, Abia Warriors and Ikorodu City are battling for the final continental qualification spot. Abia Warriors, fresh off their statement win over Rivers, currently occupy third place with 53 points.

Ikorodu City, the newly promoted side sitting in fourth with 52 points, have been the league’s surprise package. They’ve scored a league-best 51 goals this season — including 42 at home — making their attacking play one of the season’s most exciting stories. However, their away form continues to hold them back, with just two wins on the road.

Bendel Insurance, in fifth with 49 points, remain in the picture but will need to finish strong to have any hope of breaking into the top three.

Final Thoughts

Remo Stars' next test comes on the road against Shooting Stars in Ibadan — another potential stumbling block given their away form. But Ogunmodede isn’t looking to change what’s worked so far.

“We approach every game with the same mentality to get the maximum three points,” he said. “People underrate the performance of these boys... they deserve more commendation than they are getting.”

With 15 points still on the table, the Sky Blue Stars control their own destiny. But with Rivers United gaining ground and other contenders still lurking, the race is far from over.

One slip, and everything changes.