Remo beat Sunshine in NPFL ‘stars battle’

Remo Stars secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Sunshine Stars in a tense South West derby at the Ikenne Stadium on Saturday.

This win marks Remo Stars’ second consecutive triumph in the new Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, boosting them to the top of the league standings.

The only goal of the match came in the 7th minute when new recruit Ibrahim Shuaibu capitalized on a long pass from veteran defender Ifeanyi Anaemena.

Shuaibu calmly slotted the ball past Sunshine Stars goalkeeper David Obiazor, giving the Sky Blue Stars an early lead. Remo Stars nearly doubled their advantage when Franck Mawuena intercepted a clearance, but Shuaibu’s follow-up goal was disallowed for offside.

Sunshine Stars, who began their campaign with a win last weekend, remained competitive and had a second-half goal ruled out for offside.

Remo Stars’ goalkeeper Obassa Adeniyi made several crucial saves, while captain Junior Nduka’s goal-line clearance preserved the lead, ensuring a hard-earned victory.

The win keeps Remo Stars perfect in the league with two wins from two matches, as they push for their first NPFL title.

In another fixture, 2022 champions Rivers United earned their first victory of the season, defeating Heartland 3-1. Kabiru Abdullahi scored twice off the bench for Rivers United, while Taofeeq Olaniyi’s opener was cancelled out by Christian Molokwu before Abdullahi sealed the win.

The remaining matches of NPFL matchday two will be played on Sunday, promising more excitement for fans across the country.