Rangers International began the defence of their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title with a dramatic 1-1 draw against Katsina United on the opening weekend of the 2026/27 season.
Katsina United appeared on course for all three points after Luis Dadong broke the deadlock seven minutes before half-time.
However, the Flying Antelopes rescued a point deep into stoppage time when Chibueze Oputa found the back of the net to deny the hosts victory.
Nine-time champions Enyimba also endured a disappointing start to the new campaign, suffering a 2-1 defeat to Niger Tornadoes at the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna.
Aliyu Goyi put the Ikon Allah Boys ahead five minutes before the interval, but Enyimba restored parity through Wonah Williams in the 71st minute.
Michael Olalusi then struck seven minutes from full-time to seal a memorable victory for Niger Tornadoes.
In Port Harcourt, Rivers United opened their campaign with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Plateau United. Abdulrasheed Dabai and Wasiu Falolu were on target for the Pride of Rivers.
Barau FC produced one of the weekend’s impressive results, defeating Nasarawa United 3-1 at the Sani Abacha Stadium.
Joseph Atule, Al’Amin Umar and Sugau Aliyu scored for Barau FC, while Abubakar Abdullahi netted Nasarawa United’s consolation goal.
Kwara United and Kano Pillars shared the points in an entertaining 2-2 draw in Ilorin.
Kano Pillars raced into a two-goal lead through Shola Abdulraheem and veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali before the hosts mounted a comeback. Alex Jerry scored twice to earn the Harmony Boys a share of the spoils.
At the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Bendel Insurance came from behind to defeat Warri Wolves 2-1.
Eventus Itolowo gave the visitors an early lead after just five minutes, but Bendel Insurance responded through Kayode Oke’s penalty before Alex Oweilayefa completed the turnaround.
In a clash between two newly promoted sides, Doma United secured a 2-0 victory over Sporting Lagos at the Pantami Stadium.
Meanwhile, Ikorodu City also began their campaign with a 3-1 win over Ranchers Bees.
Full Results
Barau FC 3-1 Nasarawa United
Kwara United 2-2 Kano Pillars
Rangers 1-1 Katsina United
Doma United 2-0 Sporting Lagos
Ikorodu City 3-1 Ranchers Bees
Niger Tornadoes 2-1 Enyimba
Rivers United 2-0 Plateau United
Bendel Insurance 2-1 Warri Wolves
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