NPFL: Shooting Stars, Inter Lagos clash in season opener

In the new 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League, Shooting Stars and Inter Lagos will face off in the opening fixture at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan on Friday. The Oluyole Warriors come into this season after finishing third last year, an achievement that granted them continental football for the first time in 27 years.

The team aims to improve on their lackluster opening-day performances in recent seasons. Meanwhile, Shooting Stars have won only once in the last five league openers, while three matches ended in draws and one was a defeat.

Nurudeen Aweroro stepped down as manager, and his replacement is former Super Eagles assistant coach Salisu Yusuf. The squad has also seen changes with notable departures including Ismail Ayodele, Tijani Kabiru, and Ayobami Junior, the leading assist provider last season. Shooting Stars have bolstered their ranks with the signings of Taheer Abubakar, Kalu Nweke, Albert Kovarh, Tamuno Kalio, Issa Yusuf, and Aule Johnmark.

Inter Lagos will be striving to make a strong impact in their inaugural NPFL season. The club, who have already experienced what Playing Stars have to offer after drawing 0-0 in a pre-season friendly on August 4, are eager to make their mark in the top flight. Head coach Shakiru Biodun Giwa is likely to keep the core members of the squad that secured the club’s historic promotion to the league. With both teams aiming for a successful start, their clash in Ibadan should offer a captivating beginning to the new NPFL season.