The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season kicks off with a thrilling match between defending champions Remo Stars and runners-up Rivers United at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta on Friday.
Remo Stars will aim to retain their title against a resolute Rivers United side seeking to dethrone them.
This opening fixture promises excitement, pitting last season’s champions against the team that pushed them hard for the title.
Both teams will look to start the new season on a winning note, setting the tone for what promises to be an electrifying campaign.
Persecondnews reports that the stage is set for a thrilling clash between two teams with a rich history.
Rivers United took four points off Remo Stars last season, and Finidi George’s side have only lost once in their last 11 meetings in the NPFL.
The two teams have met twice in opening day fixtures, with Rivers United emerging victorious on both occasions at home.
In the 2023/24 season, Rivers United won 2-0, while in the 2019 campaign, they triumphed 1-0.
Remo Stars have strengthened their squad with several quality additions ahead of the new season.
Victor Mbaoma, a reliable forward, has returned to the club for a third stint, while experienced goalkeeper Kolimba Alladoum has joined from Katsina United.
The Sky Blue Stars have also welcomed Malian duo Chaka Coulibaly and Adama Goita, as well as Liberian winger Mark Gibson Theo.
Meanwhile, Rivers United have signed several talented players, including Ani Ozoemena, John Noble, Nsi Effimi, Rivio Ayemwenre, Anthony Omaka, Seyi Oguntayo, Chinedu Sunday, and Isaac Annor.
The match promises to be an exciting encounter between two teams with a lot of history.
With both teams looking to start the season on a winning note, the stakes are high.
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