Defending champions Remo Stars kicked off their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title defence on a shaky note, playing out a 1-1 draw with Rivers United in Friday’s season opener.
The Ikenne-based side, who are temporarily using the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta as their home ground, fell behind early when former player Aniemeke Okon headed past Kayode Bankole Obassa in the third minute, the first goal of the new campaign.
Their response was swift, as Victor Mbaoma latched onto a Samuel Anakwe through ball to smash home the equaliser just five minutes later.
Mbaoma’s goal was his 52nd in the NPFL and 16th for Remo Stars, but his night was cut short after he limped off injured in the 21st minute, making way for new signing Adama Goita.
The second half produced chances for both sides, with Anakwe a constant threat for the champions. Rivers United, however, stood firm despite finishing the match with 10 men following Temple Emekayi’s stoppage-time red card for dangerous play.
The result extends Remo Stars’ impressive unbeaten home run to 52 matches, though Rivers United remain a stubborn obstacle — the champions have now failed to beat them in their last three meetings, with just one win in 12 head-to-head encounters.
Remo Stars will next face Kun Khalifat FC on Matchday Two, while Rivers United return home to host Federation Cup winners Kwara United.