On the exhilarating opening week of the 2023/24 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season, home teams reigned supreme, securing impressive victories.
Shooting Stars Triumph at Lekan Salami Stadium
Former champions, Shooting Stars, displayed their mettle as they triumphed over Plateau United with a scoreline of 2-1. This thrilling match took place in front of an enthusiastic crowd at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Ayobami Adekunle opened the scoring for Shooting Stars with an impeccable goal eight minutes before the halftime whistle. The home team’s advantage was further cemented by Anayor Ogbonna, who found the back of the net in the 76th minute. However, the visitors showcased their determination with Uche Onwuasanya quickly narrowing the deficit.
Rangers Secure Hard-Fought Victory at Akwa City Stadium
In another enthralling encounter, Enugu Rangers prevailed over Doma United with a 2-1 victory at the Akwa City Stadium. Kalu Nweke and Austine Onyemaechi displayed their attacking prowess, both scoring in the first half. Samuel Owoku managed to grab a consolation goal for Doma United, but the resilient Rangers held on to claim the win.
Other Home Teams Reign Victorious
Several other home teams demonstrated their superiority as they clinched maximum points in their opening fixtures.
- Katsina United secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Kwara United at their home ground.
- Bayelsa United sealed an impressive 5-3 win against Akwa United.
- Abia Warriors emerged triumphant with a narrow 1-0 win over Niger Tornadoes.
- Sunshine Stars conquered the challenge posed by four-time champions Kano Pillars, emerging victorious with a tight 1-0 scoreline.
Full Results of the Opening Week
Here are the results of the thrilling opening week clashes:
- Heartland FC 2-2 Lobi Stars
- Bayelsa United 5-3 Akwa United
- Shooting Stars 2-1 Plateau United
- Abia Warriors 1-0 Niger Tornadoes
- Sunshine Stars 1-0 Kano Pillars
- Rangers Int’l FC 2-1 Doma United
- Katsina United FC 1-0 Kwara United
The 2023/24 NPFL season has started off with a bang, and fans eagerly anticipate more thrilling encounters as the campaign unfolds.
