By Silvernews
The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League season kicked off at the weekend with a flurry of action across different centres, as fans witnessed thrilling encounters, cagey affairs, and a few early upsets.
Defending champions Remo Stars were held to a 1-1 draw by Rivers United in the curtain raiser, as both sides shared the spoils in a balanced contest. Newly promoted Barau FC marked their NPFL debut with a hard-fought goalless draw against eight-time champions Enyimba International, showing early signs of resilience.
Elsewhere, El-Kanemi Warriors delighted their home supporters with a convincing 2-0 victory over Bendel Insurance, while Bayelsa United stunned Shooting Stars in Ibadan with a narrow 1-0 win. Abia Warriors also made a strong statement, edging past Kano Pillars 1-0 in Umuahia, as Wikki Tourists grabbed a slim 1-0 victory over Plateau United.
Some fixtures failed to produce goals, as Kwara United and Ikorodu City ended 0-0 in Ilorin, while Enugu Rangers and Kun Khalifat also cancelled each other out in a goalless affair. The much-anticipated clash between Niger Tornadoes and Nasarawa United was postponed, while the tie involving Katsina United and Warri Wolves did not produce an official result at press time.
With the opening round completed, El-Kanemi Warriors, Bayelsa United, Abia Warriors, and Wikki Tourists sit at the top of the early standings with three points apiece, while several teams are yet to find their scoring boots. The NPFL action resumes next weekend with Matchday Two promising even more drama.
