Rangers International has ascended to the pinnacle of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) once again after a hard-fought 2-1 victory against rivals Enyimba in an Oriental derby.
Adding to the day's excitement, Kano Pillars secured a dramatic late win thanks to a goal from Ahmed Musa in their Matchday 35 encounter.
At the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Rangers overturned a deficit to clinch a vital three points, bringing their tally to 59 points and one point clear of second- placed Rivers United. Enyimba initially took the lead through Wonah Williams early in the second half. However, Rangers responded swiftly, with Chidozie Iwundu equalizing in the 61st minute before Ifeanyi Onyebuchi netted the winning goal just seven minutes later.
Meanwhile, the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano witnessed a thrilling comeback as Pillars defeated Rivers United 2-1. Rivers United appeared set for victory after Abdullahi Musa scored in the 81st minute. However, the home side mounted a determined fightback, with Handsome Surveyor finding the net in the 89th minute to level the scores, and Ahmed Musa sealing the comeback victory deep into added time.
This result has significant implications for the title race, as Rivers United have now dropped to second place with 58 points, trailing Rangers with only two matches left in the season.
In other fixtures, Abia Warriors solidified their top-four standing with a 2-1 win over Ikorodu City. Both teams remain on 55 points, separated by goal difference.
Shooting Stars also achieved a significant 2-1 away victory against El-Kanemi Warriors, with Qamar Adegoke scoring the decisive late goal.
Nasarawa United boosted their chances of continental qualification with an emphatic 3-0 win over Warri Wolves at the Lafia City Stadium, propelling them to sixth place with 53 points.
In the intense relegation battle, defending champions Remo Stars eased their survival concerns by defeating Niger Tornadoes 3-0. This win elevated them to 16th position with 43 points.
Kwara United also improved their prospects of staying in the league with a 2-1 win against Barau FC. Katsina United were involved in a high-scoring match, emerging victorious 3-2 against Bayelsa United.
Further results saw Plateau United drawing 1-1 with Kun Khalifat, while Bendel Insurance secured a 2-1 away win over Wikki Tourists.
The bottom of the league table sees Warri Wolves, Kun Khalifat, Bayelsa United, and Wikki Tourists currently in the relegation zone, though survival remains a possibility as the season approaches its climax.
Full Results:
Wikki 1-2 Insurance
Plateau 1-1 Kun Khalifat
El-Kanemi 1-2 3SC
Kwara Utd 2-1 Barau
Remo Stars 3-0 Tornadoes
Rangers 2-1 Enyimba
Katsina Utd 3-2 Bayelsa Utd
Abia Warriors 2-1 Ikorodu City
Kano Pillars 2-1 Rivers Utd
Nasarawa Utd 3-0 Wolves
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