Top 5 matches to watch in NPFL Week 1 as former Super Eagles coach Finidi George faces Nigerian champions

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) returns this weekend for the thrilling start of the 2025/2026 season, delivering a host of exciting fixtures. 

Among them, the headline showdown sees former Super Eagles coach Finidi George’s Rivers United face off against reigning champions Remo Stars, promising a spectacular season opener.

Here are the five must-watch matches lighting up NPFL Week 1 across Nigeria:

Finidi George’s Rivers United kick off their title chase with a tough test against champions Remo Stars at Abeokuta. As Remo continues renovations on their Ikenne stadium, they will host the explosive encounter away from home. 

Last season, Remo edged out the Pride of Rivers to claim the title, but Finidi and his side, battle-hardened from a successful preseason encounter with Remo, will be eager for revenge. 

This Friday evening clash promises high drama and intensity as Rivers United aim to wrest the crown from the Sky Blues.

Two of last season’s most thrilling teams face off in what promises to be one of the weekend’s most captivating encounters. 

FA Cup winners Kwara United welcome Ikorodu City, who narrowly missed qualifying for continental competition in their debut NPFL season. 

However, Ikorodu, known as the Oga Boys, have undergone significant changes, losing key members of their coaching and playing staff. 

This matchup will test how well the Oga Boys have regrouped ahead of a new campaign without the man who led them to fourth last season.

Dethroned champions Enugu Rangers begin their journey to reclaim NPFL glory at home against newly promoted Kun Khalifat. 

Marking the first Southeast derby of the season, the visitors have impressed in preseason and are determined to make an impact in their maiden top-flight campaign. 

Still, it is likely to be normal service as usual at the Cathedral for Super Eagles assistant coach Fidelis Ilechukwu and his Flying Antelopes, who will be hunting for an early home statement.

The Oluyole Warriors of Ibadan, Shooting Stars host former champions Bayelsa United in a clash keenly anticipated by NPFL fans across Nigeria and beyond. 

After making significant changes, including poaching Ikorodu City’s coach and director who have already shown positive influence off the pitch, 3SC will aim to capitalise on home advantage at the Lekan Salami Stadium. 

This interesting match could reveal whether Shooting Stars are ready to turn their fortunes around this season as they look to build and improve on last season's performances.

Another key fixture sees impressive Abia Warriors hosting Kano Pillars in Umuahia. Last season, the Warriors shocked fans by finishing third and securing a CAF Confederation Cup spot. 

Now, they welcome a motivated Kano Pillars side energised by the appointment of Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa as the club chairman. 

This encounter could set the tone for both teams as they vie for honours this term across competitions.

As the NPFL season kicks off, fans have plenty to look forward to with these top fixtures promising passion, skill, and fierce competition.