Bayelsa United stunned Shooting Stars with a 1–0 win in Ibadan on matchday one of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). A 30th-minute header from Kehinde Lawal proved decisive at the Lekan Salami Stadium.
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Elsewhere the weekend offered no shortage of drama. Warri Wolves claimed a well-earned 1–0 away victory over Katsina United, courtesy of a late goal by Igbunnu Evwierhurhoma.
Newcomers Barau FC held reigning champions Enyimba to a goalless draw, while Kun Khalifat did the same to Enugu Rangers in Enugu. Ikorodu City and Kwara United also played out a clean 0–0 draw in Ilorin. El-Kanemi Warriors impressed with a 2–0 win over Bendel Insurance.
Editorial
We see Bayelsa United’s triumph as a powerful statement. Starting the season with an away win against a storied club like 3SC reflects not only tactical acumen but also renewed ambition.
We believe this moment will inject confidence into the squad and remind other teams that success in the NPFL depends as much on laboratory preparation as it does on reputation.
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We note that the floating results across other fixtures speak of a league in flux where newcomers like Barau FC and Kun Khalifat can hold giants, and returning teams like Warri Wolves secure critical away wins.
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We trust the season has begun with clarity: resilience, readiness, and respect will define who . Bayelsa United set an early pace they expect to match it, game after game.
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Did You Know?
Bayelsa United are coached by Monday Odigie, who steered them through crucial matches during their domestic resurgence.
Lekan Salami Stadium, known as 3SC’s home ground, often hosts passionate crowds, making Bayelsa’s feat even more impressive.
Ikorodu City, one of the clubs that drew their opening game, only gained NPFL promotion in 2024, making their presence in the top flight a recent arrival.
Last season, Remo Stars made history by becoming the first South-West Nigerian club to win the NPFL title in over two decades.
The 2025–26 NPFL season began officially on 22 August—two days before Bayelsa’s win and marks the 54th edition of the competition.