The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) got off to an action-packed start, with defending champions Enugu Rangers forced to settle for a dramatic 1-1 draw against Katsina United. The Flying Antelopes looked destined to begin their title defence with defeat after Luis Dadong gave Katsina United the lead seven minutes before half-time. However, Rangers showed late resilience as Chibueze Oputa struck deep into stoppage time to rescue a valuable point for the champions.
Enyimba Suffer Opening-Day Defeat
Nine-time NPFL champions Enyimba endured a disappointing start to their campaign after suffering a 2-1 defeat to Niger Tornadoes at the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna on Sunday. Aliyu Goyi put the hosts ahead five minutes before the break, but Enyimba fought back in the second half. Wonah Williams restored parity in the 71st minute, raising hopes of a comeback. Those hopes were short-lived, however, as Michael Olalusi scored seven minutes from full-time to hand the Ikon Allah Boys all three points.
Kano Pillars Held by Kwara United
Kwara United and Kano Pillars played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in Ilorin. The visitors appeared to be in complete control after Shola Abdulraheem and veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali gave Kano Pillars a commanding 2-0 lead. Kwara United, however, mounted an impressive comeback, with Alex Jerry scoring twice to ensure the Harmony Boys earned a share of the points.
Rivers United Make Winning Start
Rivers United enjoyed a comfortable beginning to their campaign, defeating Plateau United 2-0 in Port Harcourt. Abdulrasheed Dabai opened the scoring before Wasiu Falolu added a second to seal victory for the Pride of Rivers.
Bendel Insurance Complete Comeback
Bendel Insurance also started their campaign with three points after coming from behind to defeat Warri Wolves 2-1 at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City. Warri Wolves stunned the hosts when Eventus Itolowo scored just five minutes into the match. Bendel Insurance responded strongly, with Kayode Oke converting from the penalty spot to bring the game level. Alex Oweilayefa then completed the turnaround, securing a 2-1 victory for the hosts.
Barau FC Impress Against Nasarawa United
At the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, Barau FC produced one of the standout results of the round with a convincing 3-1 victory over Nasarawa United. Joseph Atule, Al’Amin Umar and Sugau Aliyu were all on target for Barau FC, while Abubakar Abdullahi scored Nasarawa United’s consolation goal.
Doma United Defeat Sporting Lagos
In a meeting between two newly promoted sides, Doma United secured a 2-0 victory over Sporting Lagos at the Pantami Stadium. The result compounds a difficult start for Sporting Lagos, who have now suffered defeats in their opening two games of the season.
Full Results
- Barau FC 3-1 Nasarawa United
- Kwara United 2-2 Kano Pillars
- Rangers 1-1 Katsina United
- Doma United 2-0 Sporting Lagos
- Ikorodu City 3-1 Ranchers Bees
- Niger Tornadoes 2-1 Enyimba
- Rivers United 2-0 Plateau United
- Bendel Insurance 2-1 Warri Wolves
