The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season has kicked off with a thrilling opening weekend, promising a captivating campaign filled with renewed hopes, fresh talent, and enduring rivalries. The season’s curtain-raiser saw defending champions Remo Stars held to a 1-1 draw by Rivers United, hinting at the unpredictable nature of the upcoming season. This draw sets the stage for a competitive race to the title, with several teams fancying their chances to dethrone the current champions. The opening weekend’s results will undoubtedly shape the early narrative of the season and provide a glimpse into the potential contenders for the coveted trophy.
Sunday’s fixtures offer a diverse range of matchups, from historic clashes between established clubs to the debut of newcomers eager to make their mark on the NPFL. Abia Warriors face the formidable Kano Pillars, a club with a rich history and passionate fanbase, while Wikki Tourists, returning to the top flight, host Plateau United, a team with high aspirations. Katsina United and newly promoted Warri Wolves renew their rivalry, promising a closely contested encounter based on their even head-to-head record. These matches highlight the diverse storylines that will unfold throughout the season, with established powers facing off against ambitious newcomers and teams looking to prove themselves after a period of struggle.
Two debutants, Barau FC and Kun Khalifat, mark their entry into the NPFL with challenging fixtures. Barau FC, under the guidance of veteran coach Ladan Bosso, face nine-time champions Enyimba, while Kun Khalifat, fresh off a surprise victory against Enyimba in pre-season, travel to Enugu to take on Rangers International. These matches present a significant test for the debutants, providing an opportunity to showcase their capabilities against seasoned opponents. The results of these matches will not only determine their early standing in the league but also provide valuable insights into their potential to compete at the highest level of Nigerian football.
Kwara United, fresh off their Federation Cup triumph, face Ikorodu City in a match with significant implications for both sides. Kwara United will aim to avoid a repeat of last season’s relegation scare, while Ikorodu City look to build on their impressive performances against Kwara United last season. This matchup represents a clash of contrasting ambitions, with Kwara United looking to translate their cup success into league form and Ikorodu City aiming to establish themselves as a consistent force in the NPFL. The outcome of this match could set the tone for both teams’ seasons and provide an early indication of their respective trajectories.
El-Kanemi Warriors, with their passionate home support, host Bendel Insurance in Maiduguri, while Shooting Stars, under new coach Nurudeen Aweroro and with several new signings, face Bayelsa United in Ibadan. These matches promise thrilling encounters, with both home sides looking to capitalize on their home advantage and start the season strongly. The atmosphere in these stadiums is expected to be electric, with fans eager to witness the first home games of the season and their teams’ new additions in action. These matches represent a crucial opportunity for both home sides to establish their home grounds as fortresses and set a positive tone for the season ahead.
The final fixture of the opening round sees Niger Tornadoes and Nasarawa United face off in a North Central derby relocated to Ilorin due to licensing issues with Tornadoes’ home ground. Both teams finished close to each other in the table last season and will be keen to improve their standings this season. This match, with its inherent regional rivalry, is likely to be a fiercely contested affair, with both teams eager to secure early bragging rights. The relocation of the match to a neutral venue adds another layer of intrigue, as both teams will need to adapt to unfamiliar surroundings. This final match of the opening round offers a fitting conclusion to a weekend of exciting football and sets the stage for what promises to be a compelling season in the NPFL.
