NPFL returns as Shooting Stars host Inter Lagos

Hostilities in the 2026/27 season of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) get underway today with a South-West derby between Shooting Stars Sports Club and debutants, Inter Lagos FC.

The curtain-raiser, which will hold at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, will precede the remaining matchday one fixtures scheduled to be played on Sunday.

The Oluyole Warriors under a new tactician, Salisu Yusuf, will aim at a winning start to the season.

Recalled that 3SC lost their opening game on home soil to Bayelsa United last season, a result the club faithful will not want to witness again this season.

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On the other hand, the Lagosians would target a glorious debut in the Nigerian top-flight, to express their readiness to compete with the Big Boys.

It is going to be Yusuf’s first major assignment since taking over from Nurudeen Aweroro and the former Super Eagles assistant coach needs nothing, but a positive result to endear himself into the hearts of fans and supporters of 3SC.

The Oluyole Warriors are also gearing up for the CAF Confederation Cup clash with CS Sfaxien of Tunisia, next weekend, as they would use the NPFL opener to perfect their strategies for the continental fixture to be played at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta.

Meanwhile, the remaining clubs will kickstart their campaign, on Sunday, with Ikorodu City taking on another newly-promoted Ranchers Bees in Lagos.

Defending champions, Enugu Rangers will begin the defence of their title with a home game against Katsina United.

The Flying Antelopes will also use the game as part of the build-up to their CAF Champions League campaign next month.

In another Sunday fixture, Bendel Insurance will entertain Warri Wolves in a South-South derby.