The NPFL 2025/26 season began with a cagey affair as Remo Stars and Rivers United played out a 1-1 draw at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta on Friday evening.

From early goals to dramatic red cards, the clash had everything fans expect from an NPFL opener, Footballrover reports.

Here are six big talking points from the thrilling encounter.

1. Okon Aniekeme Strikes First in NPFL 2025/26

Rivers United winger Okon Aniekeme made history as the first player to score in the new Nigeria Premier Football League season.

His well-placed header inside the opening three minutes stunned the Sky Blue Stars and set the tone for a high-intensity opener.

2. First Goal of the Season Comes from a Header

Fittingly, the first goal of the 2025/26 season came through aerial brilliance. Aniekeme’s powerful header separated both sides barely three minutes into the game.

3. Timothy Zachariah Records First Assist

Zachariah grabbed the first assist of the new season with a perfectly weighted cross for Aniekeme’s opener.

4. Chijioke Mbaoma Opens Remo Stars’ Account

The home team didn’t take long to respond. Mbaoma became the first Remo player to score this season, equalising just five minutes after Aniekeme’s strike.

His quick impact ensured the champions avoided an early home upset.

5. Serge Obassa, the First Goalkeeper to Concede

Remo goalkeeper Serge Obassa had the unfortunate record of being the first shot-stopper to concede in NPFL 2025/26.

Though beaten early, he grew into the game and helped Remo avoid further damage against a lively United attack.

6. Temple Emekayi Sees Red in Added Time

Late drama arrived when Pride of Rivers star Temple Emekayi was shown the first red card of the season in stoppage time.

Despite being reduced to ten men, the Finidi George side held firm, frustrating the Ikenne Boys and forcing both teams to share the spoils.

Such an entertaining curtain-raiser of the new campaign, with both sides already showing flashes of brilliance, and fans should expect a competitive season ahead.

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Last Updated on August 23, 2025 4:22 pm by Sir Kris