By Amaechi Agbo

Eight-time Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions, Rangers International FC, are poised to begin their 2025/26 season campaign at home against newly promoted Kun Khalifa FC.

The highly anticipated opening fixture was confirmed following the official Matchday 1 draw conducted on Monday in Abuja. The new NPFL season is scheduled to commence on August 22, 2025.

The ‘Flying Antelopes’ will be keen to start their quest for a record ninth league title on a strong note, especially with the advantage of playing in front of their passionate home supporters. 

The encounter promises to be a captivating curtain-raiser as the seasoned champions face a fresh challenge from the premiership debutants.

The ‘Flying Antelopes’ have been working acidiously under coach Fidelis Ilechukwu’ able deputies led by Ekeh Ekenedilichukwu, Ali Suleiman, Benedict Ugwu, Godwin Nosike, Anthony Donwa, Okey Odita, Stephen Adah and others to mould a winning team to challenge on all fronts in the fast approaching 2025/2026 football season.

The opening day of the 2025/26 NPFL season is set to feature a host of exciting encounters across the country:

 Abia Warriors vs Kano Pillars

 Wikki Tourists vs Plateau United

 Katsina United vs Warri Wolves

 Kwara United vs Ikorodu City FC

 Remo Stars vs Rivers United

 El Kanemi Warriors vs Bendel Insurance

 Shooting Stars vs Bayelsa United

 Barau FC vs Enyimba FC

 Niger Tornadoes vs Nasarawa United

All eyes will be on Enugu on August 22 as Rangers aim to lay down an early marker in what promises to be another thrilling NPFL season.