Rangers International F C have been crowned champions of the Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL after defeating Ikorodu City F C 2 1 in a dramatic title deciding clash. The victory secured a record equalling ninth league title for the Enugu based club and further cemented their place among Nigeria’s most successful football teams.
Captain Chibere Nwobodo delivered a match winning performance by scoring once in each half to guide the Flying Antelopes to the crucial victory. Rangers controlled key moments of the encounter and showed determination under pressure to secure the championship on the final day of the season.
Ikorodu City attempted a comeback in the 58th minute when substitute Moses Ali scored after Rangers goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh failed to properly handle a long range effort. Despite the setback Rangers maintained composure and held on to secure all three points.
Rangers finished the season at the top of the NPFL table with 68 points from 38 matches narrowly edging Rivers United F C who ended the campaign with a convincing 3 0 victory over Katsina United F C. Rivers United finished just one point behind the champions after an intense title race that lasted until the final round of fixtures.
The title triumph marks another major achievement for coach Fidelis Ilechukwu who has now won his second league title with Rangers. The success also sees Rangers equal the all time NPFL championship record held by regional rivals Enyimba F C with nine league titles.
Following their league success Rangers and runners up Rivers United will represent Nigeria in next season’s CAF Champions League where both clubs will aim to make an impact on the continental stage.
Football fans across Nigeria have celebrated Rangers’ achievement describing the title winning campaign as one of the most competitive and exciting seasons in recent NPFL history.
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