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NPFL MATCH PREVIEW: Shooting Stars Aim to Extend Unbeaten Run as They Face Wikki Tourists in Bauchi
Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) will look to extend their unbeaten streak to six matches when they take on Wikki Tourists at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi, in a Matchday 10 fixture of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Sunday, October 26, 2025. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:00 PM.
The Oluyole Warriors head into the clash in buoyant form after securing a 2–0 victory over Abia Warriors on Matchday 9 — a result that underlined their steady rise under Head Coach Nurudeen Aweroro. The Ibadan-based side currently sits second on the NPFL table and will aim to keep up the pressure on the league leaders with another strong performance on the road.
Current Form
Shooting Stars have found their rhythm this season, blending tactical discipline with a fluid attacking style. Aweroro’s men have displayed balance, belief, and a clear identity on the pitch, earning plaudits for both their defensive solidity and attacking creativity.
Meanwhile, the hosts, Wikki Tourists, are in search of redemption after suffering a 2–1 defeat to El-Kanemi Warriors on Matchday 9. Under Coach Abdu Maikaba, the Bauchi-based side sits 16th on the log and will be eager to leverage their home advantage to bounce back. Known for their physical style and passionate supporters, the Tourists are expected to make it a difficult afternoon for the visitors.
Team News
For Shooting Stars, defenders Desmond Ojietefian and Joshua Akpan have resumed light training but are still weeks away from full fitness, while Alex Aghahowa continues his rehabilitation. Goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal, nicknamed “Black Spider,” is set to retain his place between the posts following a string of impressive performances.
Midfielders Tijani Kabir and Tunde Azeez are both in contention for starting roles as Aweroro looks to maintain control in the middle of the park.
Wikki Tourists, on the other hand, are likely to rely on midfield enforcer Klinshak Longbak for stability, with Jonathan Mariga serving as the creative link between midfield and attack. Forward Lius Dadong will lead the line as Maikaba’s men attempt to exploit any gaps in 3SC’s defense.
Head-to-Head Record
The last ten league meetings between both sides have been evenly matched:
- Shooting Stars: 4 wins
- Wikki Tourists: 4 wins
- Draws: 2
Their most recent clashes in 2022 ended all square — a 0–0 draw in Ibadan and a 1–1 draw in Bauchi — underscoring how tight this fixture has historically been.
Tactical Expectations
Shooting Stars are expected to stay true to their possession-based style, focusing on movement, width, and tempo control while looking to create overloads in advanced areas. For Wikki Tourists, the approach will likely center on compact defending and quick counterattacks through their direct forwards.
For Coach Aweroro, the mission is clear: maintain composure, stay organized, and keep the momentum alive. A disciplined showing in Bauchi could further strengthen 3SC’s title credentials.
Match Details
- Fixture: Wikki Tourists vs Shooting Stars SC
- Venue: Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi
- Date: Sunday, October 26, 2025
- Kickoff: 4:00 PM
A classic North-South battle awaits, as Wikki fight to reclaim form while Shooting Stars aim to keep their unbeaten run alive and continue their impressive push toward the top of the table.