Inter Lagos vs Katsina United - NPFL

A fascinating NPFL chapter awaits on October 4, 2026 when Inter Lagos take on Katsina United at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. The 74-year-old Hoops boss admitted that "it'll be a bit strange not having the (Celtic) fans in but I'm nervously and excitedly looking forward to it; it's a great fixture" and also spoke about the police visit.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the NPFL contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. The hosts have struggled for consistency, W in their last five pointing to a win rate of 25%. The visitors have been hard to predict on their travels, WLD in their last five reflecting a win rate of 33.33%. Where Inter Lagos have built their campaign on solidity, Katsina United have often chased flair, and that fundamental difference should make for compelling viewing. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Elsewhere, there was a useful win for Atletico Madrid to end Sevilla's unlikely winning run.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Inter Lagos may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Katsina United have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. There is interest in adding another forward player who can play in one of those wide No 10 roles behind the striker in the 3-4-2-1 formation that Sage is expected to continue with at Selhurst Park.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. Sure, Scott O’Neil has managed to secure new investment for LIV Golf, but the league will surely operate under certain financial constraints going forward.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 1-1. With positions in the NPFL table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. The club are understood to favour a profile closer to Aurelien Tchouameni or a Premier League‑proven alternative rather than Manu Kone.