David Awoyode
Defending champions Remo Stars of Ikenne and Rivers United of Port Harcourt played out a 1–1 draw in the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season opener at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta, on Friday.
Remo Stars are currently using the venue as a temporary home while renovation continues at their Ikenne base.
Early Goal and Equaliser
The match started with intensity as Aniekeme Okon put Rivers United ahead in the early minutes.
Remo Stars, however, responded swiftly with Victor Mbaoma marking his return to the NPFL by scoring the equaliser.
Missed Chances for Remo Stars
The Sky Blue Stars created several opportunities in search of a winner but failed to convert. Despite dominating possession, they couldn’t find the decisive goal.
Rivers United Reduced to Ten Men
Rivers United, known for their strong defensive play, held firm until late in the game when defender Temple Emekayi was sent off for dangerous play, forcing them to finish with ten men.
Ogunmodede Reflects on 100th Match
Speaking after the game, Remo Stars coach Daniel Ogunmodede admitted he had hoped for victory in his 100th game in charge, but said the draw was still valuable.
“Yes, I was hoping to win this match being my 100th game in charge of this team, but a draw is fair enough.
We definitely miss our familiar terrain, our supporters and the atmosphere at Ikenne, but that is not an excuse for the draw,” he said.
Charles Esther