The long road to the top flight of Nigerian football is nearing its thrilling climax as the Nigeria National League (NNL) announces its final eight contenders for the 2024/2025 Super 8 Playoffs. With only four Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) promotion tickets up for grabs, the battle lines are drawn for a decisive and dramatic finale.
Meet the Super 8 Contenders:
- Yobe Desert Stars FC
- Wikki Tourists FC
- Barau FC
- Doma United FC
- Osun United FC
- Crown FC
- Kun Khalifa FC
- Warri Wolves FC
These teams emerged from a grueling league campaign, representing both seasoned contenders and new challengers from across Nigeria’s footballing regions. They will now face off in a high-stakes mini-tournament to determine who earns the coveted promotion to the NPFL.
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Final Day Drama: Osun United Steal the Show
The final spot in the Super 8 was clinched in dramatic fashion by Osun United FC, who delivered a dominant 3-1 victory over First Bank FC. The “Gladiators” knew only a win would do as they battled with Calabar Rovers FC and Sporting Lagos for the last playoff ticket.
Star forward Ganiyu Gberefun opened the scoring just two minutes into the match after capitalizing on a rough tackle involving Emmanuel Essien. Moments later, Essien made amends with a spectacular long-range effort to double the lead. Gberefun struck again in the 76th minute, securing his brace and marking his 10th goal of the season. First Bank FC managed a late consolation goal in stoppage time, but it was Osun United’s day — a performance worthy of their playoff place.
Southern Powerhouses March On
Warri Wolves FC, Crown FC, and Kun Khalifa FC had already booked their Super 8 places before the final round of games. Warri Wolves cruised past Igbajo United 3-1 away from home, while Crown FC secured a crucial 2-1 win at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium against Ijele SC. Kun Khalifa FC’s home draw against Godswill Akpabio United was enough to push them through.
These southern conference clubs now join their northern counterparts — Wikki Tourists, Doma United, Yobe Desert Stars, and Barau FC — setting up a North vs South showdown packed with tension, talent, and title aspirations.
What’s at Stake?
Only four of the eight Super 8 participants will gain promotion to the NPFL — Nigeria’s top-tier football league. The other four will remain in the NNL for another season.
On the flip side, 12 teams will be relegated from the NNL. All group bottom-placed teams drop automatically to the Nationwide League One (NLO), while teams finishing second-bottom will enter a relegation playoff. Only the top four in that mini-tournament will survive, while the remaining four join the drop.
Meanwhile, four clubs will also drop down from the NPFL to join the NNL ahead of next season, ensuring that the league remains competitive and intense.
Looking Ahead Of The 2024/2025 Nigeria National League Super 8
With the Super 8 showdown looming, Nigerian football fans can expect fireworks. Will traditional giants like Wikki Tourists and Warri Wolves reclaim their place in the top flight? Or will emerging sides like Kun Khalifa FC and Barau FC script a historic promotion story?
The battle for promotion is not just about tactics and talent — it’s about resilience, pride, and the dream of playing on the biggest stage in Nigerian football.
Let the games begin. 🏆
Follow the 2024/2025 Nigeria National League Super 8 journey on all official platforms and stay tuned for fixtures, match results, and exclusive coverage.
