The new Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season kicked off with drama at the Lekan Salami Stadium, where Bayelsa United pulled off a shock 1-0 away victory over Shooting Stars SC on Matchday 1.
Despite a flurry of pre-season signings and the arrival of new head coach Nurudeen Aweroro, Shooting Stars could not live up to expectations as Kehinde Malik’s 30th-minute header handed Bayelsa all three points in Ibadan.
Shooting Stars began brightly, piling early pressure on the visitors. But Bayelsa United, buoyed by the tireless runs of playmaker Ofem Nneoyi, gradually took control of proceedings.
At the 20th minute, 3SC goalkeeper Ozovehe produced a brilliant save to deny Nneoyi and just five minutes later, Bayelsa shot-stopper Clinton Andy matched him at the other end, keeping out a powerful effort from the hosts.
The breakthrough came in the 30th minute when Malik rose highest to head home from a corner kick, silencing the Ibadan crowd.
Captain Gabriel Biriduba then made a heroic goal-line clearance to prevent Shooting Stars from levelling shortly before half-time.
The Oluyole Warriors threw on substitutes in search of a response, but Andy was outstanding in goal, producing more saves after the restart to frustrate the hosts. Bayelsa suffered late injuries, with Nneoyi and Solomon Emmanuel forced off, but they held firm to protect their lead.
At full-time, Bayelsa United celebrated a priceless win on the road, while Shooting Stars were left to reflect on wasted opportunities.
For Bayelsa United, this victory continues their knack for troubling Shooting Stars — having beaten them 3–0 in Yenagoa last season. It also provides a perfect platform for their 2025/2026 campaign, boosting confidence for the weeks ahead.
For Shooting Stars, the defeat is a sobering reality check. The club, who finished 4th last season and recruited heavily in the off-season, had been tipped as one of the sides to push for continental football. But under new boss Nurudeen Aweroro, whose poor run at Ikorodu City raised eyebrows, their campaign begins with disappointment.
Shooting Stars will be under pressure to bounce back immediately on Matchday 2 if they want to stay in touch with early contenders.
Bayelsa United, meanwhile, will aim to build consistency after this hard-fought away win.
The NPFL promises another fiercely competitive season, with defending champions Remo Stars, Rivers United, and Enyimba all in the mix. But for now, Bayelsa United take the early bragging rights with one of Matchday 1’s standout results.
Stay tuned to ZazaMedia.com.ng for more NPFL Matchday 1 reports, updates, and exclusive coverage all season long.
