Enugu Rangers claim ninth NPFL title with victory over Ikorodu City

Enugu Rangers have been crowned champions of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City in Lagos on the final day of the season.

The win saw Rangers finish the campaign with 68 points, one point ahead of second-placed Rivers United, sealing the club’s ninth league title and drawing level with fellow giants Enyimba as the most successful side in NPFL history.

Captain Chidiebere Nwobodo was the hero for the Flying Antelopes, scoring both goals to shatter Ikorodu City’s hopes of securing a continental ticket.

Nwobodo opened the scoring on the half-hour mark with a stunning first-half strike to put coach Fidelis Ilechukwu’s side in front. The midfielder doubled Rangers’ advantage in the second half, reacting quickest to convert a rebound and give the visitors a commanding lead.

Ikorodu City pulled one back later in the game, but Rangers held firm to reclaim the league title they last won in 2024.

The defeat was a bitter blow for Ikorodu City, who narrowly missed out on continental qualification on the final day of the season for the second consecutive year.

Meanwhile, Rivers United defeated Katsina United 3-0 but were forced to settle for second place, finishing just one point behind the champions. Both Rangers and Rivers United will represent Nigeria in next season’s CAF Champions League.

Shooting Stars SC claimed the final continental slot, edging out Ikorodu City to finish third and qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup.

المصدر: Daily Trust (NG)