The new NPFL matchball, the Prostar Evolution is here and we hear it’s fast, specially made for strikers with precision.
The NPL board announced the new NPFL matchball made by Nigerian-based firm, Zenith Sports in Abuja.
Currently, 400 balls are available for distribution to the 20 NPFL clubs at 10 for each team in the league.
The Prostar Evolution NPFL matchballs will be distributed ahead of the second half of the season to give players time to practice and adapt.
Historically, the Nigerian league has only attempted to use a matchball once since the 2000s, during the LMC era.
The match ball had no specific name but research shows it was the Zebra ball from Haggai Sports.
Sportsintel dives into the tech and the qualities of the Prostar Evolution match ball.
The Technology Behind Prostar Evolution Ball.
Two popular types of soccer balls on the market are hybrid soccer balls and thermal-bonded soccer balls.
According to the manufacturer, Prostar Evolution is crafted with diamond-pattern soft-touch thermal bonded PU leather; a micro-shell coated butyl bladder, and 32 aerodynamic panels to ensure unmatched durability, control, and precision.
The ball weighs 400-430 grams with a bounce range of 1.1-1.4 meters.
On meeting international standards, Zenith Sports representative, Paul Maduakor in a chat with Olusola Adebayo on Jordan FM vouched for the quality of the new NPFL match-ball.
“It meets the international standard that’s regulated by FIFA. It’s sphericity always guaranteed and then the weight and the bounce, it’s 100 percent guaranteed. So it’s going to give the players a very good experience.”
What Players Should Expect From The New Matchball
Prostar Evolution Ball is an all-weather-friendly match ball.
Thermal-bonded soccer balls are popular for their precise flight and minimal water absorption, making them ideal for wet or rainy seasons.
Balls made from thermal bonding are consistent and have predictable flight. It makes them a preferred choice for players who prioritize accuracy and precision.
“The footballing or playing experience that the players will have, Is of the current Technology that is using producing balls. So it’s a very big win for Nigeria. Yeah, it’s going to create more opportunities. Well, it’s actually going to create more Goals. I must tell you that the goalkeepers need the grace to save because the ball will be friendly with the Strikers.“ Paul Maduakor adds.
Thermal-bonded soccer balls, with their seamless construction, are less prone to wear and tear, making them a reliable option for leagues looking for long-lasting balls.
The Prostar Evolution ball is the latest in the line of products from Zenith Sports, coming after the Prostar Aeromax used in the second division, the Nigeria National League, NNL.