Rivers United and Bayelsa United reignite one of the Nigeria Premier Football League’s most passionate rivalries this Sunday (today) as the Niger Delta Derby takes centre stage at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The clash between both clubs has always been one filled with emotion, grit, and regional pride over the years.
Bayelsa United have enjoyed the upper hand in recent meetings, winning the last three encounters, including a 1–0 victory in Yenagoa in March and a 1–0 triumph in Port Harcourt last November.
In their last six league meetings, Bayelsa United have claimed three wins, Rivers United have won twice, and one match has ended in a draw.
However, Rivers United’s recent form this season makes them overwhelming favourites heading into Sunday’s fixture.
With the guidance of former Super Eagles winger and coach Finidi George, the Port Harcourt side are unbeaten in eight league matches and have not conceded in their last seven outings across all competitions.
Their defence, led by experienced centre-back Farouk Mohammed, has been one of the tightest in the division, while the attack has also not been prolific, but have done enough to grind out results in crucial moments.
Bayelsa United, meanwhile, travel to Port Harcourt under growing pressure. Their winless streak has now stretched to five games, with three losses and two draws in that run.
After a promising start to the season with back-to-back wins against Shooting Stars and Barau FC, the team’s momentum has faltered.
They have struggled to convert chances, while defensive lapses have cost them valuable points. Without a clean sheet in five games, their backline will have to be at its best to contain Rivers United’s attacking threats.
Currently 14th on the log with eight points, The Prosperity Boys’ focus will be on rediscovering their early-season form and halting the slide before it deepens.
They have shown resilience in past derbies, particularly against Rivers United, and will look to draw inspiration from last season’s double victories over their neighbours.
A positive result in Port Harcourt could serve as a turning point in their campaign and restore confidence in the dressing room.
The stakes are high for both sides. Rivers United are chasing top spot and seeking to maintain their unbeaten run, while Bayelsa United are fighting to climb away from the lower half of the table.
Beyond the points, this fixture carries immense local pride, and once again, the Niger Delta will pause to see which side claims the bragging rights.
