Shooting Stars began their 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) campaign on a winning note, defeating Inter Lagos 2-1 at the Lekan Salami Stadium on Friday.
The Oluyole Warriors took the lead in the 14th minute through Lucky Emmanuel, who produced a fine individual effort to put the hosts in front.
Emmanuel collected the ball inside the penalty area following a throw-in and skilfully worked his way past his marker before unleashing a powerful shot into the net.
Inter Lagos quickly responded and drew level seven minutes later.
Adigun Damilare rose to meet a well-delivered cross and finished calmly to make it 1-1.
The visitors’ equaliser made for an open contest, with both teams looking for another breakthrough before the interval.
Shooting Stars eventually regained the lead from the penalty spot.
Emmanuel was brought down inside the box after being played through by Sodiq Ibrahim, and the referee pointed to the spot.
Ibrahim stepped up and confidently converted the penalty, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to restore Shooting Stars’ advantage.
The second half saw Inter Lagos push for another equaliser, but the hosts remained disciplined and protected their lead.
Despite late pressure from the visitors, Shooting Stars held on to secure a 2-1 victory and collect maximum points in their first match of the new NPFL season.
