Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Champions Remo Stars will launch their title defence against Rivers United in Abeokuta after confirming a temporary move away from their Ikenne base.
The Sky Blue Stars, who lifted the NPFL crown last season to become the first Southwest club in 25 years to do so, will host Rivers United at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena on Friday, 22 August.
Their Remo Stars Stadium is undergoing renovations, forcing the relocation of their opening fixture of the 2025/26 campaign.
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Daniel Ogunmodede’s side claimed the 2024/25 title with 71 points from 38 matches, finishing ahead of Rivers United, and will now meet the Port Harcourt club in a mouthwatering Matchweek One clash.
Super Eagles and Remo stars fullback Sodiq Ismail. Photo Credit: X
The fixture is expected to set the tone for a season carrying the biggest prize in NPFL history, ₦200m for the eventual winners.
Newcomers handed stern tests
Two newly promoted sides face difficult introductions.
Kun Khalifat FC travel away to Rangers International in Enugu.
Barau FC, making their top-flight debut, welcome record winners Enyimba International.
Other Matchweek One fixtures include:
Abia Warriors v Kano Pillars
Wikki Tourists v Plateau United
Katsina United v Warri Wolves
Kwara United v Ikorodu City
El Kanemi Warriors v Bendel Insurance
Shooting Stars v Bayelsa United
Niger Tornadoes v Nasarawa United
Rivers United gaffer Finidi George. Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
Last season’s NPFL produced 380 matches, 552 home goals, 92 draws, and over 1,180 cards.
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Yusuf Anas emerged top scorer with 18 goals, including back-to-back hat-tricks a rarity in Nigerian football.
With four new teams, a record cash prize, and a high-profile opening clash, the NPFL promises an unpredictable and thrilling 2025/26 campaign.
The season officially kicks off on 22 August across venues nationwide.
