Remo Stars began their Nigeria Premier Football League title defence with a tense 1-1 draw against Rivers United in a fiery opening-day showdown at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta.
The visitors struck first inside three minutes when Aniekeme Okon headed home Timothy Zechariah’s cross, but the champions hit back swiftly through Victor Mbaoma, who marked his NPFL return with a composed finish after good work from Samuel Anakwe.
Mbaoma’s evening ended prematurely after just 18 minutes as he was stretchered off with a suspected injury, replaced by debutant Adama Goita.
Despite losing their striker, Remo pressed hard, with Michael Ibe and Anakwe testing Rivers goalkeeper Osagie Onisodumeya, while Okon had a second goal chalked off for offside before half-time.
The second half brought more intensity than precision. Rivers nearly benefited from a defensive mix-up when Junior Nduka struck his own crossbar, while Anakwe wasted another chance with a close-range header.
Both managers turned to their benches, but clear opportunities remained scarce.
The game threatened to boil over in stoppage time when Rivers captain Temple Emekayi was sent off for a reckless high challenge on Olamilekan Adedayo.
Tempers flared, with several bookings issued before the final whistle confirmed a hard-fought draw.
The result sees both sides start the campaign with a point each, renewing the rivalry that defined last season’s title race.
Early signs suggest the battle between Remo and Rivers could once again shape the destiny of the NPFL crown.
