Rangers Clinch Historic Ninth NPFL Title

By Eppe Franklyne

Rangers International F.C. strengthened their place in Nigerian football history after defeating Ikorodu City F.C. 2-1 to win a record-equalling ninth Nigeria Premier Football League title. The dramatic victory sealed the championship for the Flying Antelopes on the final day of the season.

Club captain Chidiebere Nwobodo delivered a match-winning performance by scoring once in each half to guide Rangers to the crucial result. His goals helped the Enugu-based side stay ahead of title rivals Rivers United F.C. in a fiercely contested NPFL title race.

Ikorodu City pushed hard to stage a comeback after substitute Moses Ali reduced the deficit in the 58th minute. The goal arrived after Rangers goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh struggled to properly handle a long-range strike. Despite the pressure, Rangers held firm to protect their narrow lead until the final whistle.

The victory saw Rangers finish the season on top of the NPFL standings with 68 points from 38 matches. Rivers United ended just one point behind after recording a comfortable 3-0 win over Katsina United F.C. in their final game of the campaign.

The latest success also marked coach Fidelis Ilechukwu’s second league title with Rangers. More importantly, the triumph allowed the club to equal the all-time NPFL championship record previously held by regional rivals Enyimba F.C..

Following their impressive campaign, Rangers and Rivers United will both represent Nigeria in next season’s CAF Champions League.

Can Rangers International build on this success and become Nigeria’s most successful NPFL club outright?