Bayelsa United edge Akwa in eight-goal thriller as 2023/24 NPFL begins

The 2023/24 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season kicked off with 21 goals scored across seven games on the opening matchday. 

Bayelsa United defeated Akwa United 5-3 in a goal fest as Lobi Stars hounded Heartland FC to secure their first away point of the season on Saturday.

Bayelsa United 5-3 Akwa United

Robert Mizo scored four goals as Bayelsa overpowered the Promise Keepers at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.

Mohammed Hadi put the away side ahead in the 21st minute, but Jerry Alex responded for Bayelsa just six minutes later.

Again, Akwa United took the lead twice through Oguntayo Seyi’s brace, but Mizo’s four goals gave the home team the victory.

Shooting Stars 2-1 Plateau United

Shooting Stars dug in deep and held on for a crucial win in their season’s opening game at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

Goals from Anayor Ogbonna and Ayobami Adekunle put 3SC out of reach for Plateau United despite a late rally that led to Uche Onwuasanya’s goal in the 76th minute.

Katsina United 1-0 Kwara United

Bello Lukman’s 72nd-minute goal was the sole difference as Katsina United trumped Kwara at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium.

Abia Warriors 1-0 Niger Tornadoes

John Peters’ late goal proved enough for the Abia Warriors to weather Tornadoes’ test at the Umuahia Township Stadium.

Heartland 2-2 Lobi Stars

Lobi raced to the lead with two first-half goals at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.

The home team fought back in the second half, but their renewed configuration could only earn them a draw.

Sunshine Stars 1-0 Kano Pillars

Sunshine held firm and protected Oge Emmanuel’s 8th-minute strike to secure a home victory against the visiting Kano Pillars at the Ondo Sports Complex, Akure.

Enugu Rangers 2-1 Doma United

First-half goals from Kalu Nweke and Austin Onyeamaechi ensured the Flying Antelopes earned their first victory of the season in the presence of their home crowd at the Awka City stadium, Anambra.