Defending champions, Remo Stars, will launch their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title defence with a high-profile home clash against Rivers United in Ikenne, Afrosport reports.
Matchday One fixtures for the 2025-26 season were officially unveiled following the draw held in Abuja on Monday at the league body’s Annual General Meeting (AGM).
The new NPFL season is set to begin on August 22, and the opening round features a mix of blockbuster ties, rivalries, and debut appearances as all 20 teams kick off their campaigns.
Newcomers Kun Khalifat face a tough introduction to top-flight football with a trip ttoEnugu Rangers, while fellow debutants Barau FC will play host to two-time African champions Enyimba FC in Kano.
Elsewhere, Abia Warriors will welcome Kano Pillars in Umuahia, and Wikki Tourists take on Plateau United in a Northern derby in Bauchi. Katsina United begin their campaign at home to Warri Wolves, while Kwara United face Ikorodu City in Ilorin.
In Maiduguri, El Kanemi Warriors will look to make a strong statement when they take on Bendel Insurance, and Shooting Stars entertain Bayelsa United in Ibadan.
Rounding off the opening weekend, Niger Tornadoes will host Nasarawa United in Minna in what promises to be another tightly contested fixture.
✅ NPFL 2025/26 – Full Matchday One Fixtures:
Remo Stars vs Rivers United
Rangers International vs Kun Khalifat
Abia Warriors vs Kano Pillars
Wikki Tourists vs Plateau United
Katsina United vs Warri Wolves
Kwara United vs Ikorodu City
El Kanemi Warriors vs Bendel Insurance
Shooting Stars (3SC) vs Bayelsa United
Barau FC vs Enyimba FC
Niger Tornadoes vs Nasarawa United
