Bayelsa United sit 15th in the Nigeria Premier Football League and appear on course for another mid-table campaign. Much like last season, the Prosperity Boys continue to rely on a 4-3-3 system that offers structure but little cutting edge.
Goalkeeping remains a live debate. Chisom Chiaha and Andy Ezekiel Clinton are competing for the number one shirt, but Clinton holds the long-term advantage. The young goalkeeper featured for Nigeria’s Flying Eagles earlier in 2025 and is one of the few regular under-20 goalkeepers in the NPFL, underlining his potential value to the club.
At the back, Williams Edet Ubong has impressed at left-back with consistent performances. On the right, Issa Yusuf remains the most accomplished option after a commanding 2024–2025 season, although Saro Loveday has made significant progress and has started more matches this campaign.
The centre-back pairing of Gabriel Biriduba and Arise Ogundare remains intact, now facing increased competition from experienced defender Chinedu Sunday Chukwu. All three are physically strong and reliable, leaving Bayelsa United with a defence that is solid but unspectacular by league standards.
Midfield is arguably the strongest area of the squad. Mustapha Olamide Jawad continues to stand out as one of the league’s best defensive midfielders and has added goals to his game, scoring three so far. Kehinde Malik Lawal provides creativity and links well with Jawad in advanced areas.
Injury troubles for Wisdom Magbisa, widely regarded as the team’s most gifted player, have disrupted Bayelsa United’s rhythm. His absence has opened the door for youngster Nupe Godstime, who has shown promise, while Edwin Ayiba offers a more defensive alternative.
Wide areas remain a concern. Eyong Nneyi Ofem has featured most often on the left wing but has struggled to make an impact. New signing Shuaibu Garba has looked more dangerous, though he has not played since October 2025.
James Emo has enjoyed his most productive spell so far, operating mainly from the right wing and leading the scoring charts. Ifeanyi Ogba is the first-choice striker, yet his finishing has failed to convince despite his overall quality. Chinedu Onyenjekwe has provided useful contributions off the bench and continues to be an effective option late in matches.
With goals in short supply, Bayelsa United are widely expected to enter the mid-season transfer window in search of a new left winger and a striker. Another option is to place greater trust in youngster Stanley Idon, a natural finisher with intriguing attributes.
For now, Bayelsa United remain competitive but limited, a side capable of stability yet still searching for the spark to push beyond familiar territory.
Top scorers: James Emo 4, Mustapha Olamide Jawad 3, Ifeanyi Ogba 2, Chinedu Onyenjekwe 2.
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