Match Recap
Enugu Rangers secured their ninth Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title on Sunday after a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Ikorodu City in Lagos. The win confirmed them as champions, edging out rivals Rivers United by a single point.
Going into the final match, the Flying Antelopes knew a win would guarantee the trophy. Captain Chidiebere N’obodo delivered a brace, scoring both goals to seal the triumph.
The game began cautiously, with both teams vying for control. In the 30th minute, N’obodo finished superbly to put Rangers ahead, silencing the home supporters.
Ikorodu City attempted a response before halftime, introducing Musa Malik and Moses Ali for Kelvin Briggs and Salami Farouk.
After the break, Rangers maintained their pressure. Shortly after the restart, N’obodo pounced on a rebound to double the lead, completing his brace and placing the visitors firmly in command.
The hosts refused to yield. Moses Ali pulled one back just before the hour mark, reigniting hopes of a comeback, while Tomisin Adebayo and Tomiwa Awojobi were brought on as Ikorodu City pushed for an equaliser.
Rangers held firm through seven minutes of added time, preserving the lead and securing the championship.
Season Overview
The victory lifts Enugu Rangers’ league tally to nine titles, adding to previous successes in 1974, 1975, 1977, 1981, 1982, 1984, 2016 and the 2023/24 season. They finished the campaign with 68 points from 38 matches — 19 wins, 11 draws and eight losses — just ahead of Rivers United.
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