From the resounding conductor noises echoing through Onikan to the diligent fishermen meticulously drying their nets after a long day of fishing in Yenegoa’s flood waters, Nigeria Premier Football League fans welcomed the return of another season with a lot of cheer on the 30th of September, 2023. The NPFL has rekindled the spirit of football in the country, delivering an electrifying weekend of sporting action that left fans both enthralled and enamored. Let’s revisit some of the standout moments from Match Week 1 of the NPFL.
Eight matches took place across various centers, resulting in seven home wins and one draw. A total of 22 goals were scored in these matches, and seven of them were played simultaneously at 4 pm, with one more scheduled for October 2, 2023.
Shooting Stars vs. Plateau United
The most anticipated game of the weekend, featuring Shooting Stars and Plateau United, lived up to its reputation as a high-scoring encounter. This fixture has a history of producing goals, with 26 scored between the two sides since 2016. The match, held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, saw Shooting Stars, led by coach Gbenga Ogunbote, take control of possession for a large portion of the encounter. The home team’s midfield, anchored by captain Malomo Taofeek, along with Alex Aghahowa and Ayobami Junior, asked questions that couldn’t be answered by Plateau United. Plateau United’s veteran Fullback Daniel Itodo’s long throws caused some trouble for Shooting Stars but it was nothing the home side couldn’t deal with.
The deadlock was finally broken by Ayobami Adekunle’s header in the 35th minute, assisted by Olawale Mutiu. Veteran striker Anayor Ogbonna extended the lead to 2-0 shortly after coming on in the 70th minute, but Uche Onwuasonaya pulled one back for the Peace boys, giving them a consolation goal.
Shooting Stars FC make 2-0 with a fantastic strike!#NPFL #Live #SSFC #PUFC pic.twitter.com/sFoaKhfRDS
— NPFLLive (@NPFL_Live) September 30, 2023
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Bayelsa United vs. Akwa United
In a thrilling eight-goal encounter at the Bayelsa Township stadium, Bayelsa United, led by Robert Mizo, showcased their attacking prowess. Mizo secured a hat-trick in this match, marking the first hat-trick of the NPFL season. While Hadi Mohammed gave Akwa United an early lead, Alex Jerry made sure to equalize for the home side. Oguntayo Seyi’s deflected effort put Akwa United ahead once again, but Robert Mizo struck just before halftime to level the scores. Seyi scored his second goal, but Mizo completed his hat trick with a brace, handing Bayelsa United the lead. Substitute, Emmanuel Nneoyi sealed the deal with a goal, securing the first three points of the season for Bayelsa United.
Sporting Lagos vs. Gombe United
Sporting Lagos made a strong debut in the top tier of the NPFL as they hosted Gombe United at the Onikan Stadium. Coach Paul starteda familiar starting lineup that brought them from the Nigeria National League to the NPFL. Christian Nwoke in goal, Aliu Salawudeen and Patrick Egeonu in defense, Chisom Orji on the wings, and Okon Saturday up front.
Chinedu Ufere made his debut in the midfield for the Tech boys who demonstrated their determination from the beginning, with an impressive performance. The first goal in Sporting Lagos’ NPFL history came three minutes before halftime when Rivio Ayemwenre headed in a perfectly placed cross. Sporting Lagos continued their dominance and secured a second goal when Clement’s attempted assist to Lokosa turned into a Lokosa assist to him. In added time, Sporting Lagos defended their clean sheet by denying Gombe United a consolation goal from a penalty. Coach Mohammed Babaganarus’side only had little to offer in the form of attacking output meaning they would have a lot to think about has the season progresses .
Post Game Highlights: Sporting Lagos FC with a fantastic team goal to make it 2-0!#NPFL #Live #SLFC #GUFC pic.twitter.com/dk0MUPG0U8
— NPFLLive (@NPFL_Live) October 2, 2023
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Reactions to NPFL Live Broadcast
The 23/24 NPFL season introduced AI cameras to live stream the matches, offering fans a new viewing experience. While some fans found it exciting to watch simultaneous games live for the first time in the league’s history, others expressed mixed reactions. Some appreciated the novelty, while others felt that the lack of multiple angles, replays, and comprehensive stats made the streaming experience less satisfying. A user Adeoye Aduragbemi applauded match day commenttary saying “ Finally we’ve moved away from “And enh, this the match day of the Nigeria Premier League, and ehnnnn, it is newcomers Sporting Lagos Vs Gombe United at this onikan Stadium” while Edafe Matthew EseOgnene said “As the season is starting and we have seen the first day broadcast, let me put this out clearly that, Propel is not delivering on the promises it made, when they presented this AI production, the flaws from day 1 is too much, you either fix this or pack it up. This is too poor.”
The new season promises more thrilling football action and exciting developments as it unfolds. Stay tuned for more updates and live broadcasts as we continue to celebrate the beauty of the NPFL.
Results
– Katsina Utd 1-0 Kwara United
– Bayelsa United 5-3 Akwa United
– Shooting Stars 2-1 Plateau United
– Rangers 2-1 Doma United
– Abia Warriors 1-0 Niger Tornadoes
– Heartland 2-2 Lobi Stars
– Sunshine Stars 1-0 Kano Pillars
– Sporting Lagos 2-0 Gombe United