Enyimba, Kano Pillars, NPFL, Remo Stars, Rivers United

NPFL Matchday One: Three Away Wins As NPFL Kicks Of For 2024/2025 Season

The 2024/2025 season of the NPFL resumed over the weekend with the matchday one seeings 18 goals, standout performances, and key moments across eight games.

This weekend saw the 2024/2025 Matchday one of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), with eight thrilling games played across various locations. Sunday’s fixtures delivered exciting action, featuring 18 goals from four home wins, three away wins, and two draws. Notably, the match between Bendel Insurance and Rivers United in Benin was the only one without a goal.

After last weekend’s goalless draw between Enugu Rangers and El Kanemi Warriors, the hunt for the first goal of the season resumed. Doyeni Olawale, a defender for Plateau United, ended the drought by scoring the first goal and penalty of the season in the 23rd minute. Sunshine Stars, under Kennedy Boboye’s guidance, kicked off their campaign with a 3-0 victory over Bayelsa United in Ijebu.

In another highlight, the Remo Stars secured a 2-0 win against Abia Warriors in Umuahia. Ismail Sodiq broke the deadlock in the 49th minute, and Jide Fatokun doubled the lead in the 62nd minute, even as their head coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, served on national duty with the Super Eagles.

Pillars gave NPFL newcomers Ikorodu City a tough start, delivering a 3-0 defeat in Kano. Four-time winners Pillars scored through Rabiu Ali, who netted twice, and Muhammad Umar. Meanwhile, Kwara United faced an unexpected 1-2 home loss to Niger Tornadoes.

In the Oriental Derby, Enyimba continued their dominance with a 3-1 victory over Heartland FC, despite Heartland taking the lead in the 54th minute. Rivers United’s Bamidele Adeniyi received the first red card of the season during their 0-0 draw with Bendel Insurance, making it a significant moment. Shooting Stars managed to earn a point in Lafia, as Samuel Ayanrinde’s late equalizer canceled out Anas Yusuf’s 63rd-minute penalty for Nasarawa United. The matchday 1 games conclude on Monday with Lobi Stars hosting Akwa United in Makurdi.