Aniekeme Okon, the Rivers United forward, etched his name into Nigerian football history by scoring the opening goal of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season. The momentous occasion was tinged with a touch of irony, as the goal came against his former club, Remo Stars, in a tightly contested match held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta. Okon’s early strike, a well-placed header in the third minute, sent the home crowd into stunned silence, briefly giving Rivers United the upper hand. The goal originated from a precise cross delivered by teammate Timothy Zechariah, which Okon expertly directed into the net.
The lead, however, proved short-lived, as Remo Stars’ Victor Mbaoma responded just six minutes later, restoring parity to the scoreline. The match continued with both teams vying for dominance, but neither could break the deadlock. The final whistle blew with the score remaining 1-1, leaving both sides sharing the spoils in the season opener. Despite the draw, Okon expressed satisfaction with his performance and the valuable point earned away from home.
Okon’s post-match comments revealed the significance of his goal, both personally and for the season’s narrative. He acknowledged the respect he holds for his former club, Remo Stars, explaining his muted celebration after finding the net. While acknowledging the emotional context, he also expressed his pride in scoring the season’s inaugural goal, a feat that will undoubtedly be remembered in NPFL history.
The 26-year-old forward’s trajectory in the NPFL reveals a journey marked by consistent contributions. During his stint with Remo Stars in the 2023/24 season, Okon notched up four goals in 24 league appearances. His subsequent move to Rivers United in the previous season saw him maintain his scoring form, contributing three goals and four assists in 31 NPFL matches. His opening goal of the 2025/26 season signifies a promising start to a new campaign, adding to his growing reputation as a reliable attacking force.
The opening match between Remo Stars and Rivers United underscored the competitive nature expected in the 2025/26 NPFL season. Both teams displayed their attacking prowess, highlighting the potential for an exciting season ahead. The quick succession of goals early in the match set the tone for an engaging contest, showcasing the league’s potential for thrilling encounters. The draw, while not a decisive result for either team, serves as a valuable point gained in the early stages of the competition.
The equalizing goal by Victor Mbaoma demonstrated Remo Stars’ resilience and determination to perform well on their home turf. Mbaoma’s timely response prevented Rivers United from gaining an early advantage and set the stage for a balanced contest. The remainder of the match showcased the tactical acumen of both teams, as they battled to gain control of midfield and create scoring opportunities. The final result, while not a victory for either side, leaves both teams with a foundation to build upon as the season progresses.
