The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season kicks off with a high-stakes encounter between the reigning champions, Remo Stars, and the previous season’s runners-up, Rivers United. This opening match, scheduled for Friday at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, pits two of the league’s strongest teams against each other, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. Remo Stars, after clinching their maiden NPFL title last season, will utilize the Abeokuta arena as their temporary home ground while their stadium in Ikenne undergoes renovations. They aim to establish the arena as a formidable fortress in their quest to defend their title. Rivers United, the 2022 champions, are eager to reclaim their position at the top of the league table. This opening fixture marks the 12th meeting between these two sides, with Rivers United boasting a dominant head-to-head record, having won seven of their past encounters, while three have ended in draws. Remo Stars’ solitary victory against Rivers United occurred in May 2024, a 2-1 triumph during the 2023/24 season.
The pre-season encounters between these teams further underscored Rivers United’s competitive edge. They handed Remo Stars a resounding 3-0 defeat during the Eko International Cup before settling for a goalless draw in the Value Jet Cup. While past performance may offer some insight, the current season hinges on personnel changes and team dynamics. Both clubs have been active in the transfer market, bolstering their squads with new talent. Rivers United, under the guidance of coach Finidi George, has recruited a blend of experienced and young players, including goalkeepers Ani Ozoemena and John Noble, as well as outfield players like Nsi Effimi, Rivio Ayemwenre, Anthony Omaka, Seyi Oguntayo, Chinedu Sunday, Azeez Falolu, and Isaac Annor. Furthermore, Finidi has reinforced his coaching staff by reuniting with his trusted assistant, Yemi Olanrewaju.
Remo Stars, on the other hand, face a potential challenge as their head coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, may be unavailable for the opening fixture due to his involvement with the Super Eagles B team at the 2024 CHAN tournament. His assistant, Sulaiman Kamil, who successfully managed approximately ten games during Remo Stars’ title-winning campaign last season, is expected to lead the team in Ogunmodede’s absence. Adding to their potential predicament, nine Remo Stars players also participated in the CHAN tournament with the Super Eagles B, potentially impacting their availability for the opening match.
Despite these potential setbacks, Remo Stars have demonstrated their ambition to retain their title by acquiring Malian duo Chaka Coulibaly and Adama Goita, as well as welcoming back Victor Mbaoma for a third stint with the club. They have also added experienced goalkeeper Kolimba Alladoum and Chigozie Chilekwu to their ranks. Last season’s encounters between these two teams saw Rivers United secure four points from the two-leg fixtures, ultimately finishing ten points adrift of Remo Stars in the title race. A positive result for Rivers United in this opening match, even a draw in Abeokuta, could provide a significant boost to their aspirations of mounting another title challenge. For Remo Stars, this game carries immense weight as they begin their title defense.
The match between Remo Stars and Rivers United promises to be an intriguing contest, showcasing the tactical acumen of the coaching staff and the individual brilliance of the players. Both teams possess strengths and weaknesses, and their ability to adapt and exploit opportunities will likely determine the outcome. Rivers United’s historically dominant record against Remo Stars, coupled with their pre-season victories, may give them a psychological edge. However, Remo Stars’ status as reigning champions and their determination to defend their title will undoubtedly fuel their performance. The absence of key personnel for Remo Stars, including their head coach and several players due to national team commitments, presents a challenge but also an opportunity for other players to step up and prove their worth. Rivers United will aim to capitalize on this potential vulnerability and secure a crucial victory.
This opening fixture serves as a compelling prelude to the 2025/26 NPFL season. The result will not only provide valuable points but also set the tone for the campaigns of both teams. A win for Rivers United would send a strong message to the league that they are serious contenders for the title, while a victory for Remo Stars would affirm their championship credentials and solidify their intent to retain their crown. The clash between these two football giants promises to be a spectacle of skill, strategy, and determination, captivating fans and setting the stage for an exciting season of Nigerian football. The outcome of this match will undoubtedly have repercussions on the league standings and influence the narrative of the season ahead.
