By Tolulope Oguntimehin 

The race for the 2023/24 NPFL title is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, pitting a privately-owned club, Remo Stars, against a government-owned club, Enugu Rangers. Remo Stars have shown remarkable consistency throughout the season, while Enugu Rangers, after a strong start followed by a dip, have regained their momentum and climbed to the top of the table. Love it or hate it, this is going to be an exciting season.

Personally, I have a soft spot for Remo Stars. The level of investment and the passion and commitment of the club's owner have driven their progress over the past five years. They went from a team struggling for promotion, to one that faced relegation, bounced back, and has since competed with the top teams, even securing spots in continental competitions. Despite their consistent performance this season, a recent draw against Gombe United could be a setback. Analyzing their last six matches, they are likely to garner up to 13 points.

Remo Stars' likely outcomes:

Draw at Kwara United (tough due to Kwara's relegation battle)
Win against Kano Pillars at home
Win against Lobi Stars away
Win against Heartland at home
Loss to Sunshine Stars in Akure
Win against Katsina United in Ikenne
This would leave Remo Stars with a total of 69 points.

On the other hand, Enugu Rangers are poised to take the title with a projected finish of 70 points. Here's how their remaining matches might play out:

Win against Bayelsa United
Draw in Lagos
Win against Enyimba
Loss to Shooting Stars (who are fighting for a continental ticket)
Win against Bendel Insurance
Win against Gombe United in Jos
This analysis suggests that Enugu Rangers will edge out Remo Stars for the NPFL title by a single point. While my heart wishes for a Remo Stars victory due to their inspiring journey and substantial investments, the statistics and match forecasts indicate that Enugu Rangers are in a slightly better position to clinch the championship.

Put your money on it—this is how the season is likely to unfold.

Remo Stars  last six matches 

Kwara Utd vs Remo stars
Remo stars vs Kano pillars
Lobi stars vs Remo stars
Remo stars vs Heartland 
Sunshine stars vs Remo stars 
Remo stars vs Kastina utd 

Enugu Rangers last six matches 

Rangers vs Bayelsa utd 
Sporting Lagos vs Enugu Rangers 
Enugu rangers vs Enyimba 
Shooting stars vs Enugu rangers 
Enugu rangers vs Bendel insurance 
Gombe utd vs Enugu Rangers