NPFL: Rivers United, Plateau United begin campaign

The remaining fixtures of Match Day One of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) would be played today across the federation, with the defending champion, Rivers United and runner up, Plateau United among the eight teams to kick-start the season’s abridged league in groups A and B.

Group A will see Kwara United host Gombe United FC in its 18,000 capacity Kwara State Stadium in Ilorin, Kwara. The Afonja Warriors were a delight to watch last year, following their exploits in the CAF Confederation Cup.

At the New Jos Township Stadium, the Fidelis Ilechukwu-led team will be hoping to continue with their fine form of last season when they host Shooting Stars. The Tin City side last season finished second behind Rivers United.

El Kanemi Warriors may be having a big task in their hands, as they visit one of the revelations of last season, Remo Stars. Both teams are meeting at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne.

In the Group B fixtures, Rivers United will be opening their account of the NPFL when it host Lobi Stars at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

In a Niger Delta derby, Dakkada FC will be hosting Bayelsa United FC at the magnificent Akwa Ibom International Stadium, Uyo. The hosts will strive hard to avert the fate that befell Akwa United during the league opener at the same stadium. They lost to Bendel Insurance of Benin.

In the other fixture, newly promoted Doma United FC will welcome Sunshine Stars FC to the Gombe Stadium as the new entrants kick start their stay in the topflight league.

In an oriental derby, Abia Warriors will be on the road as they tackle former champions, Enugu Rangers at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium

Also, Wikki Tourists FC will be hosting Niger Tornadoes at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium as the Giant Elephant will hope to claim maximum points.