El-Kanemi Warriors have kicked off preparations for the second stanza of the 2024-25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season. The team, popularly known as the Borno Army, held an intensive training session on Monday at the El-Kanemi Stadium, signaling their readiness to maintain their competitive form.

Currently seated in fifth place on the NPFL table with 29 points, the Warriors are keen to build on their performance in the first half of the season. The training session focused on physical conditioning and tactical drills aimed at refining the players’ form and strategy for the challenges ahead.

However, the absence of two key players, top scorer Mustapha Ibrahim and Usman Bulama, was a noticeable gap in Monday’s session. Ibrahim is recovering from illness, while Bulama remains sidelined due to an injury. Despite their absence, the remaining squad showed determination and focus during the drills.

Tactical Precision for Competitive Edge

The session, led by the coaching staff, placed a heavy emphasis on tactical sharpness, a critical area for the team’s aspirations of climbing the league table. With the league's second half often proving more intense, El-Kanemi’s readiness will be tested against strong opposition.

The team’s ability to adapt without their top scorer and midfield maestro will be crucial. Coach and management will undoubtedly look to other players to step up and fill the void in the interim.

Opinion: Can the Warriors Break into the Top Four?

El-Kanemi Warriors’ current position on the table reflects their potential, but the real test lies in sustaining their form through the second half of the season. With the absence of Mustapha Ibrahim, the team must find alternative goal-scoring options to maintain their attacking threat.

The tactical drills and physical conditioning are a positive sign of the team’s focus and ambition, but questions remain about squad depth and resilience in the face of injuries to key players. A strong start to the second stanza could see the Warriors break into the coveted top four and even contend for a higher position.

What Lies Ahead?

As the NPFL season resumes, El-Kanemi Warriors will face tough fixtures that could define their season. Fans will hope for Ibrahim’s swift recovery and Bulama’s return to fortify the squad. With a mix of experienced players and rising talents, the Warriors have the tools to push for a stellar finish.

One thing is clear: the Borno Army is not just preparing for the league—they’re preparing for glory. Their journey resumes, and all eyes will be on how they navigate the challenges of the second stanza.