The 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season roared to life with a flurry of action on Match Day One, setting the stage for a thrilling competition. The opening fixtures, held across various venues nationwide, witnessed a mix of dominant performances, unexpected upsets, and tightly contested draws, offering a glimpse into the fierce battle that lies ahead for coveted continental spots and the ultimate championship title. The results underscored the unpredictable nature of the league, promising an enthralling season for football enthusiasts across Nigeria.
El-Kanemi Warriors made a strong statement with a convincing 2-0 victory over Bendel Insurance, while Bayelsa United pulled off a surprising 1-0 upset against Shooting Stars. Meanwhile, traditional powerhouses Enyimba International were held to a goalless draw by newly promoted Barau FC, highlighting the competitive spirit of the newcomers. In other matches, Wikki Tourist edged out Plateau United 1-0, and Abia Warriors secured a narrow 1-0 win over Kano Pillars. The clash between Enugu Rangers International and another promoted side, Kun Khalifat, also ended in a stalemate.
Kwara United and Ikorodu City played out a goalless draw, while Warri Wolves, returning to the top flight after their promotion, secured a vital 1-0 away victory against Katsina United. The Match Day One fixtures concluded with a postponed match between Niger Tornadoes and Nasarawa United, scheduled for August 27th. The season officially commenced on August 22nd with a curtain-raiser between Remo Stars and Rivers United, which resulted in a 1-1 draw.
The opening round of matches has set the scene for a captivating Week Two, with teams eager to accumulate early points and establish their standing in the league. All Week Two fixtures are slated for a 4 p.m. kickoff, intensifying the midweek football action. Bendel Insurance will look to bounce back from their opening day defeat when they host Shooting Stars on August 30th. The remaining fixtures will unfold on August 31st, featuring a series of intriguing encounters across different venues.
Kano Pillars will aim to recover from their loss as they welcome Wikki Tourist, while Plateau United will seek their first victory against Katsina United. Warri Wolves, buoyed by their opening win, will host Enugu Rangers International, and newly promoted Kun Khalifat will face Remo Stars. Rivers United will clash with Kwara United, while Ikorodu City will host El-Kanemi Warriors. Bayelsa United will look to build on their upset win as they host Barau FC, while Enyimba International will aim to secure their first victory against Niger Tornadoes. The week’s action concludes with Nasarawa United hosting Abia Warriors.
The 2025/2026 NPFL season features four newly promoted teams: Wikki Tourist, Barau FC, Warri Wolves, and Kun Khalifat, all eager to make their mark in the top flight. Their presence injects fresh competition and excitement into the league, promising an unpredictable season. Conversely, four teams were relegated from the 2024/2025 season: Heartland FC, Akwa United FC, Sunshine Stars FC, and Lobi Stars FC, highlighting the constant churn and competitive nature of Nigerian football. The relegated teams will undoubtedly be working hard to regain their NPFL status in the lower divisions.
The 2025/2026 NPFL season, commencing on August 22nd, is scheduled to conclude on May 24th, 2026. The nine-month long campaign promises a rollercoaster of emotions, with teams battling for supremacy, vying for continental qualification, and fighting to avoid relegation. The opening matches have provided a tantalizing glimpse of the excitement to come, setting the stage for a season of high-octane football action, dramatic twists, and nail-biting finishes. The NPFL is poised to deliver another captivating season, showcasing the passion and talent of Nigerian football.
