The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) kicked off its new season with a thrilling opening day, featuring a total of 18 goals. The day’s action included three away victories, three draws, and four home wins, showcasing a lively start to the season.
Key Performers of NPFL Opening Day
NPFL and Kano Pillars legend RABIU ALI made a significant impact, netting a brace in Kano Pillars’ match against newly promoted Ikorodu City. His first goal came from a fantastic free-kick in the 70th minute, and he added another in the 80th minute. Alongside Ali, MUSTAPHA UMAR scored the opening goal of the season for Kano Pillars.
ENYIMBA’s CLINTON JEPHTA also made headlines with a brace in their clash against Heartland of Owerri, managed by FIFA U-17 World Cup-winning coach EMMANUEL AMUNEKE. IFYANYI IHEMEKWELE also scored for Enyimba, while SURAJ LAWAL provided a consolation goal for Heartland.
ONE-CAP SUPER EAGLES DEFENDER SODIQ ISMAIL marked the start of the season with a spectacular goal in Remo Stars’ 2-0 away victory over Abia Warriors. JIDE FATOKUN sealed the win with a second goal, ensuring a perfect start for the Sky Blues. REMO STARS head coach DANIEL OGUNMODEDE was absent due to national team duties for the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
In Ijebu Ode, SEIDU SALISU, PROMISE AWOSANMI, and STEPHEN CHUKWUDE delivered strong performances as they led their team to victory over Bayelsa United. Meanwhile, OLAWALE DOYENI’s 24th-minute penalty secured a 1-0 win for Plateau United against Katsina United.