The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) returns with exciting action as several teams recorded wins on the first day of the new season, while other matches saw tight battles and unexpected outcomes.
Remo Stars Stuns Abia Warriors
Remo Stars kicked off their season with a strong 2-0 away win over Abia Warriors. Goals from Super Eagles right-back Sodiq Ismail and Jide Fatokun in the second half sealed the victory for the visitors.
Niger Tornadoes Secures Away Win
Niger Tornadoes pulled off the biggest surprise of the day, defeating Kwara United 2-1 in Ilorin. Godwin Joseph opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, and Sabiu Ibrahim doubled the lead in the 69th minute. Kwara United’s Sadeeq Yusuf scored a late goal in added time, but it wasn’t enough to prevent the loss.
Rivers United Hold Bendel Insurance to a Draw
Rivers United, led by new head coach Finidi George, managed a 0-0 draw in their first match of the season against Bendel Insurance in Benin.
This was Finidi’s first competitive game as Rivers United’s manager, and his team showed solid defense but couldn’t find the back of the net.
Enyimba’s Comeback Win Against Heartland
Enyimba recorded a 3-1 away win against their neighbors, Heartland, who were playing their first match under former Super Eagles forward Emmanuel Amuneke.
After Heartland’s Suraj Lawal scored eight minutes into the second half, Enyimba responded with two goals from Clinton Jephta and another from Ifeanyi Ihemekwele, securing all three points for their head coach, Yemi Daniel.
Kano Pillars and Sunshine Stars Win Big at Home
Kano Pillars dominated newcomers Ikorodu City with a 3-0 home win, while Sunshine Stars also secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Bayelsa United in their first NPFL fixture.
Last-Minute Drama in Nasarawa United vs. 3SC
Nasarawa United and Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) played out a 1-1 draw, with both teams scoring in the second half.
Anas Yusuf gave Nasarawa United the lead from the penalty spot just before the hour mark, but Samuel Ayanrinde scored a stoppage-time equalizer to secure a point for Shooting Stars.
Plateau United and El-Kanemi Warriors in Tight Battles
Plateau United managed a narrow 1-0 victory over Katsina United, while champions Enugu Rangers were held to a 0-0 draw at home by El-Kanemi Warriors in the opening match of the season last weekend.
NPFL Day 1 Results:
- Abia Warriors 0-2 Remo Stars
- Sunshine Stars 3-0 Bayelsa Utd
- Nasarawa United 1-1 3SC
- Heartland 1-3 Enyimba
- Kwara United 1-2 Tornadoes
- Bendel Insurance 0-0 Rivers United
- Kano Pillars 3-0 Ikorodu City
- Plateau United 1-0 Katsina United
