The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season began with plenty of drama as defending champions Remo Stars were forced to a 1-1 draw at home by Rivers United at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta.
Rivers United made a quick start, taking the lead in the third minute through Aniekeme Okon, who scored against his former club with a fine header from Timothy Zechariah’s cross.
Remo Stars hit back just six minutes later when Victor Mbaoma converted Samuel Anakwe’s clever pass, scoring his first NPFL goal for the club in more than six years and his 16th overall for Remo.
Mbaoma’s return was cut short after he picked up a knock and had to be substituted in the 21st minute, with Malian forward Adama Goita coming on. The champions continued to push forward, but Rivers United almost restored their lead when Michael Ibe’s free-kick hit the crossbar. Goita also went close, but his effort was blocked by Rivers’ strong defence.
The match ended in late drama as Rivers defender Temple Emekayi was sent off in stoppage time for dangerous play, but the score remained 1-1.
The result extended Remo Stars’ unbeaten home run in the NPFL to 51 matches, a streak that has lasted since May 2022. It was also the third time both sides have clashed on opening day, with Rivers United winning the previous encounters in 2019 and 2023.
The draw also stretched Rivers United’s impressive record of going 12 years unbeaten in NPFL season openers.
Other Matchweek One Fixtures:
- Abia Warriors v Kano Pillars
- Wikki Tourists v Plateau United
- Katsina United v Warri Wolves
- Kwara United v Ikorodu City
- El Kanemi Warriors v Bendel Insurance
- Shooting Stars v Bayelsa United
- Niger Tornadoes v Nasarawa United