Frankie Omokhua, Enugu
The race for the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title will now be decided on the final day of the season following crucial victories recorded by Rangers International and Rivers United in Matchday 37 encounters.
At the historic Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Sunday, Rangers International secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Bendel Insurance to maintain their grip on the summit of the league table, while Rivers United kept their championship dreams alive with an impressive 3-2 away triumph against Wikki Tourists.
The Flying Antelopes currently occupy first position with 63 points, just one point ahead of second-placed Rivers United on 62 points, setting the stage for a thrilling finale next weekend.
With the title destiny still hanging in the balance, Rangers will travel to Ikorodu for their decisive Matchday 38 clash, while Rivers United will host Katsina United in Port Harcourt in what promises to be a tension-soaked final round of fixtures across the country.
For Rangers, the dream of reclaiming the NPFL crown has been driven not only by performances on the pitch but also by strong backing from the club’s management.
The club’s General Manager, Amobi Ezeaku, has continued to provide morale-boosting incentives for the players as the Enugu side pushes for what would be a remarkable league title triumph within three seasons.
Ahead of their crucial away fixture against Bayelsa United in Yenagoa two weeks ago, Ezeaku rewarded each player with N200,000 as motivation to secure a positive result – a gesture that reportedly inspired the team to deliver a strong performance on the road.
The support did not stop there, as the players were again financially motivated before their vital victory over Bendel Insurance.
In a further demonstration of solidarity within the club, Rangers Scouting Manager, Patrick Nworji, also joined the encouragement drive by redeeming a N300,000 per goal reward package for the players.
The atmosphere in Enugu has continued to build with excitement as supporters believe Rangers are now just one final hurdle away from lifting another NPFL title, although Rivers United remain firmly in contention and ready to capitalize on any slip from the Flying Antelopes.
