NPFL 2025/26 Matchday One: Bayelsa Stun 3SC As Warri Wolves, Wikki Tourists Shine On Return

The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season kicked off with a dramatic weekend of football that delivered upsets, close contests, and memorable returns.

Naija News reports that the league opener on Friday, August 22, saw Remo Stars and Rivers United share the spoils in a 1-1 draw at the Remo Stars Stadium, Abeokuta.

On Sunday, August 24, Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) endured a disappointing start to their campaign, falling 1-0 to Bayelsa United at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.

Kehinde Lawal’s towering 30th-minute header sealed all three points for the visitors. Despite 3SC’s late surge in attack, Bayelsa goalkeeper Clinton Andy produced a string of brilliant saves to preserve the lead.

The result handed Bayelsa’s new coach, Monday Odigie, a dream start, while 3SC’s gaffer, Nurudeen Aweroro, was left to reflect on a false start in front of their home fans.

Elsewhere, league returnees Warri Wolves and Wikki Tourists marked their comebacks with vital wins. Wolves snatched a 1-0 away victory against Katsina United courtesy of Igbunnu Evwierhurhoma’s strike in the 76th minute.

Wikki Tourists also earned maximum points after Luis Dadong converted a penalty just before half-time to beat Plateau United in Bauchi.

Newcomers Barau FC impressed on their debut, holding ten-man Enyimba to a goalless draw in Kano. Kun Khalifat also showed resilience in Enugu, battling to a 0-0 stalemate with Rangers International.

In Maiduguri, El-Kanemi Warriors started strong with a 2-0 win over Bendel Insurance, while Abia Warriors edged Kano Pillars 1-0. Ikorodu City dug deep to earn a valuable goalless draw away at Kwara United.

Note that the first round of fixtures will wrap up on Wednesday when Niger Tornadoes face Nasarawa United in Minna.