On the first matchday of the 2023–24 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season, 21 goals were scored over seven games.
On Saturday, Lobi Stars pursued Heartland FC to earn their first away point of the year while Bayelsa United upset Akwa United 5-3 in a goal-fest.
Akwa United defeat Bayelsa United 5–3
At Yenagoa’s Samson Siasia Stadium, Bayelsa defeated the Promise Keepers with four goals from Robert Mizo.
In the 21st minute, Mohammed Hadi gave the opposition the lead, but Jerry Alex equalised for Bayelsa six minutes later.
Again, Oguntayo Seyi’s brace helped Akwa United take the lead twice, but Mizo’s four goals helped the home team win.
Plateau United defeats Shooting Stars 2-1.
In their season-opening match at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, Shooting Stars fought valiantly and held on for an important victory.
Despite a late comeback that resulted in Uche Onwuasanya’s goal in the 76th minute, goals from Anayor Ogbonna and Ayobami Adekunle placed 3SC beyond Plateau United’s grasp.
Kwara United loses to Katsina United 1-0.
The only goal scored by Bello Lukman in the 72nd minute was the difference in Katsina United’s victory over Kwara at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium.
Niger Tornadoes lose 1-0 against Abia Warriors.
The Abia Warriors were able to overcome the Tornadoes’ challenge at the Umuahia Township Stadium thanks to a late goal from John Peters.
Heartland defeats Lobi Stars 2-2
At the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri, Lobi quickly took the lead after scoring twice in the first half.
In the second half, the home team battled back, but their improved lineup could only result in a tie.
Sunshine Stars defeated Kano Pillars 1-0.
At the Ondo Sports Complex in Akure, Sunshine held tight and preserved Oge Emmanuel’s eighth-minute goal to secure a home victory over the visiting Kano Pillars.
Enugu Rangers defeated Doma United 2-1.
In front of their home crowd at the Awka City stadium in Anambra, the Flying Antelopes secured their first victory of the year thanks to goals from Kalu Nweke and Austin Onyeamaechi in the first half.
