In an emotional start to the NPFL season, Rivers United’s Aniekeme Okon reflected on his celebration following his goal against former club Remo Stars an early header in their 1–1 draw at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta.
Okon’s glancing header in just the third minute, assisted by Timothy Zachariah, put Rivers United ahead. Remo Stars responded swiftly: Victor Mbaoma, recently returned from APR FC, equalised six minutes later with a composed finish from Samuel Anakwe’s pass.
Okon explained that his reaction was a mix of respect and relief scoring against the club where he once played felt both familiar and unfamiliar. He emphasised that the moment was less about rivalry and more about celebrating personal growth since his departure.
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The match grew tense in the second half, culminating in Rivers United captain Temple Emekayi being sent off for dangerous play in added time. The draw extended Rivers United’s unbeaten run in season openers to 13 matches and preserved Remo Stars’ strong home record.
Editorial
We believe that Okon’s celebration speaks to the complex emotions players face when confronting their past. Football often asks athletes to bridge personal histories and professional commitments, and in that moment, Okon embodied both.
We feel compassion for him. Leaving a club does not erase the bonds formed there. Scoring against former teammates can revive memories yet the way Okon celebrated revealed a maturity beyond triumph. He honoured where he came from while embracing his new path.
We trust that this moment will deepen empathy on both sides. Remo Stars supporters might recognise that Okon’s success reflects their own development as a club, nurturing talents that leave and return differently. For Rivers United, his leadership in seizing opening-day points adds value beyond the goal itself.
We anticipate that both institutions will grow from this encounter. Remo Stars maintain unbeaten pride; Rivers United extend their season opener resilience. And Okon’s nod to personal growth reminds us that football is first and foremost human. Acknowledging our shared journeys can enrich competition more than any trophy ever could.
Did You Know?
- Remo Stars clinched their first NPFL title in April 2025, becoming the first club from South-West Nigeria to win the top division since 2000.
- The 2025/26 campaign opener draw extended Rivers United’s unbeaten streak in opening fixtures to 13, dating back to March 2013.
- Aniekeme Okon previously featured for Akwa United and Kano Pillars before joining Rivers United.
- Rivers United was founded in 2016 via the merger of Dolphins FC and Sharks FC, combining their identities in the club crest.
- The 2024–25 NPFL season saw Remo Stars win the championship three games before the end of the season, under coach Daniel Ogunmodede.
