The wait is finally over. Nigerian football lovers can now breathe in the fresh aroma of another rollercoaster campaign as the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) roars into action with pulsating fixtures across the nation.
From title hopefuls to newly promoted sides, the stage is set for drama, passion, and fierce rivalries as clubs chase glory, pride, and continental dreams.
The season’s curtain-raiser on Friday already whetted appetites as reigning champions Remo Stars were held to a cagey 1-1 draw by Rivers United, proof that no team will be given an easy ride in this campaign.
Sunday Showdowns: Rivalries Reignite Across Nigeria
All eyes now turn to today’s (Sunday) action-packed line-up of nine fixtures spread across the country, with each one carrying its own flavour of intrigue.
Abia Warriors vs Kano Pillars (Umuahia):
The Warriors open their campaign against NPFL giants Pillars, who arrive with their intimidating pedigree and fanatical support base. Both sides know that a strong start could shape the rhythm of their season.
Wikki Tourists vs Plateau United (Bauchi):
The return of Wikki to the top flight coincides with Plateau United’s determined charge for silverware. The clash at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium promises fireworks as both sides look to lay down early markers.
Katsina United vs Warri Wolves (Katsina):
Newly promoted Warri Wolves, fresh off their Nigeria National League triumph, face an early acid test against Katsina United. With their head-to-head evenly balanced (two wins each in four meetings), this fixture is delicately poised.
Debutants Enter the Spotlight
Two newcomers step into the spotlight with plenty to prove.
Barau FC vs Enyimba (Kano):
Barau FC, nicknamed the Maliya Boys, face a baptism of fire against nine-time champions Enyimba at the Sani Abacha Stadium. With coach Ladan Bosso guiding their top-flight debut, Barau are eager to show they belong. Enyimba, led by Stanley Eguma, arrive hungry to reclaim lost glory after a disappointing sixth-place finish.
Rangers International vs Kun Khalifat (Enugu):
For Kun Khalifat, this is history in the making—their first-ever NPFL outing. The Owerri-based side stunned Enyimba in pre-season and could spring surprises against a Rangers side desperate to bounce back from a disappointing 10th-place finish last term.
Other Key Fixtures
Kwara United vs Ikorodu City (Ilorin):
Kwara United, fresh from a Federation Cup triumph but haunted by last season’s relegation scare, face a tricky test against a youthful Ikorodu City side brimming with ambition.
El-Kanemi Warriors vs Bendel Insurance (Maiduguri):
This clash pits tradition against ambition, with the fiery Borno supporters ready to transform Maiduguri into a fortress.
Shooting Stars vs Bayelsa United (Ibadan):
The Oluyole Warriors unveil a new era under Nurudeen Aweroro, with high-profile signings adding steel to their ranks. But Bayelsa United, under the savvy Monday Odigie, will relish the chance to spoil the party at the Lekan Salami Stadium.
Niger Tornadoes vs Nasarawa United (Ilorin):
A North-Central derby relocated to Ilorin after Tornadoes’ Minna ground failed licensing tests. Both sides—who finished just a point apart last season—are eager to start afresh on solid ground.
With champions Remo Stars already dropping points, rivals across the league smell opportunity. From star-studded contenders to ambitious debutants, the NPFL 2025/26 season promises thrills, shocks, heartbreaks, and unforgettable moments.
The ball is rolling. The rivalries are back. The quest for glory has begun.
PIONEER NEWS 