Shooting Stars will host newly promoted Inter Lagos at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, in the opening fixture of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season on Friday.
The Oluyole Warriors enjoyed an impressive campaign last season, finishing third in the NPFL and securing continental football for the first time in 27 years.
Shooting Stars will, however, be eager to improve on their poor starts to recent league campaigns. In their opening matches over the last five seasons, the five-time Nigerian champions have recorded just one victory, alongside three draws and one defeat.
Change Of Guard At Shooting Stars
The Ibadan club will begin the new season under former Super Eagles assistant coach Salisu Yusuf, who recently took over as technical adviser following the departure of Nurudeen Aweroro.
Aweroro guided Shooting Stars to their impressive third-place finish last season before parting ways with the club.
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The Oluyole Warriors have also undergone significant changes to their squad, with key players Ismail Ayodele, Tijani Kabiru and last season’s leading assist provider, Ayobami Junior, all leaving the club.
Shooting Stars have moved to strengthen their squad with the addition of Taheer Abubakar, Kalu Nweke, Albert Kovarh, Tamuno Kalio, Issa Yusuf and Aule Johnmark.
Inter Lagos Ready For First Baptism
Inter Lagos, meanwhile, will be looking to make a strong impression in their maiden season in the Nigerian top flight.
The Lagos-based side earned promotion to the NPFL for the first time last season and will be hoping to prove they can compete against the established teams in the division.
The modest side will also take confidence from their recent meeting with Shooting Stars, having held the Ibadan club to a goalless draw in a pre-season friendly on August 4.
Head coach Shakiru Biodun Giwa is expected to rely largely on the core group of players who helped the club secure their historic promotion to the NPFL.
By Adeboye Amosu
