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By Amaechi Agbo

Ahead of the opening game of the 2022/2023 Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL season against returnees, Bendel Insurance, Akwa United Coach, Ayodeji Ayeni has disclosed that their guests have a pedigree and and warned his players not to leave anything to chance.

Speaking ahead of their Sunday, January 8 clash in Uyo in his pre match media chat, Mr Ayeni said his wards have prepared very well for the league and expressed optimism that they will make a positive start to the
campaign.

“As a team, we have done a lot to prepare for the new season and I’m confident that my players are battle ready to go all out and prove their worth on Sunday because they are here on merit.

“Our first match is against Insurance of Benin, a newly promoted team to the top flight. They are a club with pedigree, and I know the coach very well. We wanted to play them during our pre-season programme but it wasn’t possible because of our congested programme during the festive season, but we have an idea about their playing pattern and style because we have done our homework well after seeing them play in some pre-season games .

“This season, we will be playing in an abridged League format which means fewer matches and we cannot leave anything to chance and that is why we have to start strong to ensure we secure one of the play-off spots and from there we will challenge for the league title”.

Akwa United Vs Bendel Insurance is the only match to be played on matchday one of the new season tomorrow after all other matches were postponed till next weekend.

Following the late commencement of the league, the Interim Management Committee, IMC opted for an abridged format to enable them conclude the season in May this year.

The 20 clubs have been paired in Group A and B. The three best teams from each group will qualify for Super 6 to determine the winner of the league.