The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) kicks off its 54th season on Friday with champions Remo Stars hosting last season’s runners-up Rivers United led by Former Super Eagles gaffer Finidi George.
The opening fixture at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena is set to draw attention across the country as two of the league’s top contenders begin the new campaign.
Remo Stars lifted their first NPFL title last season after back-to-back runner-up finishes, but will start their title defence away from their Ikenne home ground, which is under renovation.
Rivers United head coach Finidi George believes his side can take advantage of the champions being away from their base.
“We’re playing the reigning champions and so it will be a tough one,” Finidi said. “But being they’re playing away from home we will see how we can capitalise on that advantage to pull off a surprise victory.”
The former Ajax and Nigeria international has reinforced his squad with goalkeepers Ani Ozoemena and John Noble, as well as Nsi Effimi, Rivio Ayemwenre, Anthony Omaka, Seyi Oguntayo, Chinedu Sunday and Isaac Annor.
Finidi has also added Yemi Olanrewaju to his coaching team as assistant.
Yemi Olanrewaju and Finidi George are back together after working together at Enyimba international. Photo Credit: Pooja Photos
The Sky Blue Stars have bolstered their squad with Malian duo Chaka Coulibaly and Adama Goita, alongside returning striker Victor Mbaoma, goalkeeper Kolimba Alladoum and Chigozie Chilekwu.
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Head coach Daniel Ogunmodede, who guided the side to their maiden title with three games to spare, will be looking to make a strong start as they aim to retain their crown.
Remo Stars Title winning gaffer Daniel Ogunomodede. Photo Credit: Remo Stars
Head-to-head advantage with Rivers
Despite Remo Stars’ recent success, Rivers United hold the upper hand in their past meetings. The Port Harcourt side have lost just once in their last 11 encounters with the champions, taking four points off them last season.
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Rivers also boast an unbeaten run in opening-day fixtures stretching back 12 years, with their last defeat coming in 2013 to Akwa United.
Remo Stars lifts NPFL 2024/2025 title ahead of Rivers United. Photo Credit; X
Both clubs have met twice before on Matchday One, Rivers United won 1-0 in 2019 and 2-0 in 2023.
Today’s fixture is expected to be a lively contest, but with 37 more matchdays to follow, the result will be only the start of a long title race.
NPFL match week one fixtures. Image Credit: NPFL/X
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
