Rivers United FC - Enyimba predictions and free betting tips [30/01/2024]

Today in the Nigerian Premier League, Rivers United will play against last season's champions, Enyimba.

Rivers United

In the current season of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL), Rivers United occupies the 14th spot, just four points above the last place. The team has shown mixed results, with only one win and two draws in their last five matches. However, their defence is noteworthy, having conceded only 14 goals in 16 matches, one of the best records in the league.

In their recent games, Rivers United lost 0-1 to Enugu on 24th January, drew 1-1 with Home United on 20th January, and secured a 2-1 victory over Akwa on 16th January. They lost 2-3 to Plateau on 10th January and drew 1-1 with Gombe on 7th January.

Enyimba

Enyimba is currently in third place in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL), trailing by just four points behind the leaders, Lobi Stars. After a shaky start, the champions of the previous season gradually climbed up and are now contenders for the top positions. In the last five games, Enyimba has won three times but also suffered two away defeats. Throughout the season, they have lost five of their six away matches.

Recent performances of Enyimba include a 2-1 win against Shooting Stars on 21st January, a 1-2 loss to Katsina United on 17th January, a 0-1 defeat to Plateau on 13th January, a 2-0 victory over Sporting Lagos on 7th January, and a 2-1 win against Bayelsa United on 28th December.

Head-to-head 

In the last five direct encounters, Enyimba hasn't won a single match. The game on 11th June 2023 ended in a 1-1 draw. On 18th April 2022, Rivers United beat Enyimba 2-0. They also won 1-0 on 29th December 2021. In the match on 4th July 2021, Enyimba lost 0-1, and on 2nd May 2021, the teams drew 1-1.

Match prediction: Rivers United - Enyimba

While recent statistics and the nature of the Nigerian championship don't favor the visitors, champions are expected to show character. Enyimba has risen to the top-3 after a poor start and might clinch points against one of the lower-ranked teams. My bet is on the plus handicap for the visitors.