Remo Stars Set Early Pace as NPFL Youth League Kicks Off at Ikenne Centre
The 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Youth League began with thrilling action at the Ikenne Centre, as Remo Stars surged to the top of the standings after a commanding 2-0 victory over Kwara United on Matchday 1.
The win places Remo Stars ahead on goal difference, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting youth football season.
The Remo Stars Stadium is hosting the Southwest zone of the U-19 tournament, featuring teams from Ibadan, Akure, Benin, Lagos, and Ilorin. The opening day delivered goals, drama, and fierce competition among the future stars of Nigerian football.
In the day’s first fixture, Ikorodu City from Lagos secured a narrow 2-1 win over Bendel Insurance in a tightly contested match. Remo Stars followed with a confident display against the Afonja Warriors from Ilorin, keeping a clean sheet while netting two goals to claim the top spot.
The final game of the day ended on level terms, as Sunshine Stars and Shooting Stars played out an entertaining 2-2 draw, with both sides showing attacking flair and resilience.
Matchday 2 is scheduled for Tuesday and will feature more riveting contests. Remo Stars will look to extend their lead when they face Shooting Stars, while Ikorodu City will take on Sunshine Stars. Kwara United, hoping to bounce back from their opening loss, are set to clash with Bendel Insurance.
The NPFL Youth League is a pivotal developmental platform for players under the age of 19, and has been strategically zoned into three regional centers. In addition to the Southwest zone in Ikenne, Umuahia will host the Southeast zone, featuring Rivers United, Akwa United, Enyimba, Heartland, Rangers, Lobi Stars, and the hosts, Abia Warriors.
Kano will stage the Northwest zone, with Katsina United, Niger Tornadoes, Plateau United, El-Kanemi Warriors, and host team Kano Pillars competing.
Fixtures in the Southeast and Northwest zones will run from August 10 to 14. The best-performing teams from each region will advance to the Top-Six finals, where the overall champion of the NPFL Youth League will be determined.
