 kicks off today (Friday) with a heavyweight clash, as reigning champions Remo Stars host){kind=link}
The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) kicks off today (Friday) with a heavyweight clash, as reigning champions Remo Stars host Rivers United — last season’s runners-up — at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta.
Remo Stars, crowned NPFL champions for the first time in their history last season, will play their home matches in Abeokuta while renovation works continue at their Ikenne base —Remo Stars Stadium.
The Sky Blue Stars will hope to make the ground a fortress as they launch their title defence in Ogun State’s capital.
Today’s fixture marks the 12th meeting between both clubs; Rivers United hold the upper hand historically, with seven wins and three draws.
Remo’s sole victory came in May 2024, a crucial 2-1 triumph during their title run.
Both teams have already tested themselves in pre-season with Rivers United beating the champions 3-0 at the Eko International Cup before a stalemate in the Value Jet Cup, suggesting Finidi George’s side are eager to reassert their dominance.
Finidi has reinforced his squad with experienced and youthful additions, including goalkeepers Ani Ozoemena and John Noble, alongside Nsi Effimi, Rivio Ayemwenre, Anthony Omaka, Seyi Oguntayo, Chinedu Sunday, Wasiu Falolu, and right back Isaac Annor.
He has also reunited with assistant coach Yemi Olanrewaju to bolster the backroom staff.
Remo Stars, however, may face a tricky start as Head coach Daniel Ogunmodede has only just returned from leading the Super Eagles B at the 2024 CHAN tournament, leaving assistant coach Sulaiman Kamil — who managed 10 games last season — likely to oversee tonight’s encounter.
Nine of their players also featured at CHAN and could be unavailable.
Nonetheless, Remo have strengthened their squad, adding Malian duo Chaka Coulibaly and Adama Goita, returning striker Victor Mbaoma, experienced goalkeeper Kolimba Alladoum, and left back Chigozie Chilekwu.
Rivers United finished 10 points behind Remo Stars last season but collected four points in both league meetings.
A result in Abeokuta would set the tone for another strong title challenge, while the champions will be determined to start their defence with a statement victory.
Kick-off at 4 pm in Abeokuta promises to set the pace for an enthralling NPFL season.