Champions Remo Stars face Rivers United in blockbuster NPFL curtain-raiser

By Tosin Omojola –

The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season officially kicks off today Friday with a mouthwatering clash as defending champions Remo Stars battle runners-up Rivers United.

There could hardly have been a more fitting fixture to herald the new campaign, pitting last season’s two best teams against each other.

Remo Stars, guided by flamboyant tactician Daniel Ogunmodede, lifted the league shield for the first time in the club’s history last season, edging past Rivers United, who finished second.

Both sides will now renew their rivalry as the 20 NPFL clubs begin the race for the new season’s crown.

The encounter will take place at the M.K.O Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, a neutral ground but still within Remo Stars’ territory.

The venue was chosen because the champions’ traditional home in Ikenne is currently undergoing renovation.

Despite the shift, excitement remains high as Finidi George’s Rivers United, nicknamed the Pride of Rivers, go head-to-head with the Sky Blue Stars in what promises to be a thrilling season opener.