The 2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season began with a thrilling weekend of football, as fans were treated to a flurry of goals, surprise results, and dramatic performances.
Enyimba FC set the tone with a commanding 3-1 away win over Heartland FC, reminding everyone why they remain one of the most feared teams in Nigerian football. Clinton Jephta shone with a brilliant brace, marking Enyimba’s first time scoring three away goals since their 2021 win over Dakkada. This victory solidifies their reputation as title contenders from the get-go.
It was a tough start for Heartland’s new coach, Emmanuel Amunike. The former Super Eagles star endured a disappointing managerial debut as his side struggled to match Enyimba’s intensity. Despite playing at home, Heartland failed to capitalise on key chances, leaving Amunike with much work to do in the weeks ahead to find a winning formula.
Meanwhile, Kano Pillars delivered one of the standout performances of Matchday One, dispatching newcomers Ikorodu City with a 3-0 victory. Ikorodu, dubbed the “Baby of the NPFL,” struggled to adapt to the pace and quality of top-flight football, but their youthful squad showed potential. Despite the heavy defeat, the club remains optimistic about improving as the season progresses.
Kano Pillars’ veteran playmaker Rabiu Ali once again demonstrated his class in their 3-0 victory over Ikorodu City. The 43-year-old midfield maestro played a pivotal role in controlling the game, dictating the tempo with his vision and passing.
Ali’s ability to pull the strings from the middle of the park, even at his age, is a testament to his enduring quality and leadership. His influence was crucial in guiding the younger players and ensuring Pillars’ dominance throughout the match, making him a key figure as they aim for success this season.
Imama Amapakabo, another coach making his return to the NPFL, also faced disappointment. His Abia Warriors side lost 1-0 at home to Remo Stars. Despite Abia Warriors’ high-pressing game, they couldn’t find the back of the net, with Remo Stars capitalising on their opportunity to secure a valuable away win. Amapakabo will need to rally his troops quickly to avoid falling further behind.
Elsewhere, Sunshine Stars dominated Bayelsa United in a resounding 3-0 win, spoiling Ladan Bosso’s return to the NPFL. Bosso’s Bayelsa United side struggled to cope with Sunshine’s relentless attack, leaving the veteran coach facing an uphill battle to restore his team’s fortunes.
In a fiercely contested North Central derby, Niger Tornadoes earned a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Kwara United. The win sends a strong message that Tornadoes are ready to compete at a higher level this season. Kwara United, meanwhile, will be left frustrated, looking to regroup in the upcoming fixtures.
Shooting Stars SC rounded off the weekend with a dramatic late equaliser to earn a 1-1 draw against Nasarawa United. The match looked to be in Nasarawa’s favour until a lapse in defence allowed Shooting Stars to snatch a crucial point in the dying moments. Nasarawa United will see this as a missed opportunity, dropping two points that could have been theirs.
NPFL 25 Matchday One Results:
- Rangers 0-0 El-Kanemi
- Heartland 1-3 Enyimba
- Sunshine Stars 3-0 Bayelsa United
- Kwara United 1-2 Niger Tornadoes
- Bendel Insurance 0-0 Rivers United
- Abia Warriors 0-1 Remo Stars
- Plateau United 1-0 Katsina United
- Nasarawa United 1-1 Shooting Stars
- Kano Pillars 3-0 Ikorodu City
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