2026/2027 NNL Match Day 1: Ibomo Inspires Bayelsa United to Winning Start

Posted : 09 November 2026

Bayelsa United made a winning start to their 2026/2027 Nigeria National League (NNL) campaign on Sunday, edging Abia Comets 1-0 at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa, to kick-start their promotion pursuit.

Godswill Ibomo emerged as the match-winner, producing a moment of individual brilliance in the 29th minute to secure maximum points for the former Aiteo Cup champions.

The victory provided an encouraging opening for the Prosperity Boys, whose major objective this season is to regain their place in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

Bayelsa United dominated the early exchanges, controlling possession and creating opportunities through John Bassey and Okardi Inikurogha.

However, the hosts initially struggled to penetrate Abia Comets' organised defence before Ibomo broke the deadlock.

The young forward cut inside from the right flank before unleashing a superb left-footed volley that flew past goalkeeper Anyanwu Ugochukwu.

The goal rewarded Bayelsa United's early dominance and sent their home supporters into celebration.

Abia Comets returned from the interval with greater attacking intent, putting the hosts under pressure as they searched for an equaliser.

However, the Prosperity Boys remained disciplined defensively, frustrating the visitors and protecting their slender advantage.

Technical Adviser Abdul Maikaba subsequently introduced Julius Godknows and Godbless Ayeke for Inikurogha and Bassey, respectively, to inject fresh energy into the attack.

The introduction of Ayeke was particularly significant as the youngster, recently promoted from the club's feeder team, made his senior-team debut.

Despite the changes, neither side could alter the scoreline as Bayelsa United held on for an important opening-day victory.

Reacting after the encounter, Maikaba described the contest as difficult but expressed satisfaction with the three points.

He acknowledged that his players created several scoring opportunities but failed to convert them, while admitting that Abia Comets improved considerably after halftime.

The coach expressed confidence that his team would improve as the campaign progresses.

Abia Comets Head Coach Ifeanyi Ukaiwe also praised his players' performance despite the defeat, describing their display as a reflection of their ambition for the new season.

He promised that his team would build on the positives from the encounter and work towards better results in subsequent fixtures.

Bayelsa United captain Gabriel Biriduba, meanwhile, reaffirmed the team's determination to approach every match with a winning mentality.

He said the opening victory had strengthened the squad's confidence as they pursue an immediate return to the NPFL.

The Prosperity Boys will next travel to Ekiti to face Dokkal Khairu FC on November 15 at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium.

Maikaba's men will be hoping to extend their winning start and maintain momentum in their quest for promotion.

2026/2027 NNL Match Day 1: Ibomo Inspires Bayelsa United to Winning Start

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