NPFL: Bayelsa United Stun Rivers United 2–1 in South South Derby Thriller

Bayelsa United handed Rivers United their first defeat of the 2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, securing a hard-fought 2–1 victory in a rescheduled South South derby at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt on Monday morning.

The high-intensity clash, originally scheduled for Sunday, was postponed due to heavy rainfall that rendered the pitch unplayable.

Bayelsa United drew first blood in the 28th minute through Shuaibu Garba, who calmly slotted home after a defensive lapse from the hosts.

The visitors doubled their lead 19 minutes from time when Chinedu Emmanuel found the net with a composed finish, silencing the home crowd.

Rivers United fought back late in stoppage time, with Stephan Manyo pulling one back, but it was too little, too late to salvage a point.

The result marks a significant statement for Bayelsa United, who continue to build momentum early in the season, while Rivers United — previously unbeaten — will now regroup ahead of their next NPFL fixture.