Defending Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL)
champions Rangers International began their title defence with a dramatic 1-1
draw against Katsina United on the opening day of the new season.
Katsina United appeared destined for victory after
Luis Dadong gave the hosts the lead seven minutes before half-time.
The Flying Antelopes, however, fought until the final
whistle and snatched a point when Chibueze Oputa scored deep into stoppage
time.
Elsewhere, nine-time champions Enyimba suffered a
disappointing start to their campaign after losing 2-1 to Niger Tornadoes at
the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna.
Aliyu Goyi put the Ikon Allah Boys ahead five minutes
before the break, but Enyimba restored parity through Wonah Williams in the
71st minute.
Niger Tornadoes, however, secured all three points
seven minutes from full-time when Michael Olalusi found the decisive goal.
In Port Harcourt, Rivers United opened their campaign
on a positive note with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Plateau United.
Abdulrasheed Dabai and Wasiu Falolu were on target for
the Pride of Rivers as they secured maximum points.
At the Sani Abacha Stadium, Barau FC produced one of
the day’s impressive performances, defeating Nasarawa United 3-1.
Joseph Atule, Al’Amin Umar and Sugau Aliyu scored for
Barau FC, while Abubakar Abdullahi netted Nasarawa United’s consolation goal.
Kwara United and Kano Pillars played out an
entertaining 2-2 draw in Ilorin.
The visitors raced into a two-goal lead through Shola
Abdulraheem and veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali, but the hosts mounted a comeback
as Alex Jerry scored twice to earn the Harmony Boys a share of the points.
At the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, former
champions Bendel Insurance completed a comeback victory over Warri Wolves,
winning 2-1.
Warri Wolves stunned the hosts when Eventus Itolowo
opened the scoring just five minutes into the match.
Bendel Insurance responded through Kayode Oke, who
converted from the penalty spot, before Alex Oweilayefa completed the
turnaround to secure victory for the Benin Arsenal.
In another clash involving newly promoted sides, Doma
United defeated Sporting Lagos 2-0 at the Pantami Stadium.
The result gave Doma United a winning start as both
clubs began life in the NPFL campaign.
NPFL Matchday 1 Results
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