The Predictor tips Heartland for summit

Heartland's Chinedu Efugh.

Heartland now look the most likely team to topple Kano Pillars at the top of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

I expect the Cup holders to build on their away win at 3SC in mid-week.

There will be nine matches on Sunday with the Enugu Rangers - 3SC tie postponed owing to the former's engagement in continental football.

Sharks versus Sunshine Stars will be live on SuperSport 9 from 4pm local time (5pm CAT).

May 19, 2013

Sharks v Sunshine Stars (Sharks Stadium, live on SuperSport 9)

Last two trips to Port Harcourt have ended in defeats for Sunshine Stars. They've also gone three games without a win this term and same goes for Sharks.

For the Blue Angels they've won just once in five home games while Sunshine Stars have taken just two points on the road from 18. Sharks head coach, Gbenga Ogunbote come up against his old team and that should be enough motivation to take the full points.

My prediction: 1-0

Heartland v ABS (Dan Anyiam Stadium)

Both teams have one similarity in their form guide in last five games - one loss apiece. Heartland stand a very good chance of going top of the standings. Ebere Odiche is Heartland's most consistent striker having scored two in two and then there's Isah Akor, the joint leading scorer, who knows how to score at home. The hosts are well-armed for this tie.

My prediction: 2-0

Nasarawa United v Akwa United (Lafia Township Stadium)

Akwa United have lost all six away games and this is always going to be a tough trip for them as they've lost their last three games at Nasarawa United.

The Solid Miners have been quite strong at home having dropped just four points out of 18. And I expect no less than a win from the hosts.

My prediction: 1-0

Enyimba v Bayelsa United (Enyimba Stadium)

It's about the worse start for the two-time African champions. Enyimba have blown hot and cold this term and for this tie, I think they will take the full points.

Despite going three matches unbeaten, Bayelsa United will drop the points and lose their top three spots. Enyimba's defence will be hard to breach.

My prediction: 2-0

Nembe City v Wikki Tourists (Samson Siasia Stadium)

It's five straight away losses for the Tourists as they head to Nembe City who have enjoyed a good spell of four home wins out of four.

Samuel Akinbinu, Okiki Mosampa and co will no doubt lay siege to the Tourists and help their side to a home win.

My prediction: 1-0

Warri Wolves v Kano Pillars (Warri City Stadium)

It's been 361 minutes since Kano Pillars scored an away goal this season having suffered consecutive away defeats at Enyimba (0-3) and Enugu Rangers (0-4). On the other hand, Wolves have won three straight home matches after an initial run of draws.

I'm still wondering how Kano Pillars head coach, Mohammed Baba Ganaru will set up his team going forward since they've lacked zest in the final third in their last four away games. I think Wolves will edge this.

My prediction: 1-0

Kaduna United v Lobi Stars (Kaduna Township Stadium)

It has not been the best of starts for both teams this term. Stuttering displays by both sides so far this season have left them in the bottom half of the table with Kaduna United in the bottom four.

Both teams have struggled to score goals in their recent games and I don't see this producing more than a goal, which would go the way of the hosts.

My prediction: 1-0

Kwara United v Dolphins (Kwara State Stadium)

No doubt Dolphins are without five of their regulars and that could continue for a few matchdays, but I refuse to accept they're so depleted. I expect Dolphins manager, Stanley Eguma, to give one or two youngsters the feel of first-team football. Who knows another rookie could be on the cards.

Though Kwara United have been very strong in their last three home matches winning with identical 2-0 scoreline. But I think Dolphins are capable of coming up with a surprise result.

My prediction: 1-1

Gombe United v El-Kanemi Warriors (Pantami Stadium)

The hosts are one of three teams still with a 100 percent home record. Gombe United have also got a squad capable of always grinding out a result at home against any opposition.

El-Kanemi have struggled to assert themselves on the road picking just a point in 18. I don't see them taking a result at Gombe United.

My prediction: 1-0

*The Predictor had the best exact score of five since the start of this season. He also notched up eight correct results.