On Sunday, Rangers International from Enugu triumphed over the visiting El Kanemi Warriors, achieving a 2-0 victory and thereby reclaiming the top position in the 2025/26 Nigerian Premier Football League.
The week 31 encounter, held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, showcased the Flying Antelopes' dominance from the onset, as they controlled the game's pace and created several early opportunities.
Despite a strong attacking presence, Rangers found it challenging to make an early impact due to some misfired attempts. The breakthrough finally came in the 40th minute when Daniel Itodo scored with a header following a scramble in the box, igniting fervent celebrations among the home crowd.
Following the opening goal, Rangers maintained their momentum but failed to convert more chances before halftime, concluding the first half with a score of 1-0.
In the second half, veteran forward Godwin Obaje extended Rangers' lead in the 79th minute with a composed finish that secured a comfortable advantage for the home side.
El Kanemi attempted to pull one back but faced a robust Rangers defense that remained resolute under pressure. Rangers continued to threaten but were also unable to increase their tally, and the match concluded with a score of 2-0.
El Kanemi’s coach, Kabiru Dogo, acknowledged his team’s shortcomings, stating, “Both teams played well. We started the match strongly, but the second goal disrupted our strategy. I accept that we were bested by a superior side.”
Rangers' head coach, Fidelis Ilechukwu, expressed his contentment with the win, praising El Kanemi as a strong team while highlighting his players’ commendable display.
Following this victory, Rangers now sit at the top of the league table with 53 points, eyeing the outcome of Rivers United's match against Nasarawa United scheduled for Monday.
Other Match Results
The NPFL featured several competitive matches on Sunday, yielding significant wins for multiple leading teams:
\- Katsina United FC 1-0 Shooting Stars FC
\- Plateau United FC 1-0 Bayelsa United FC
\- Warri Wolves FC 0-0 Bendel Insurance FC
\- Kano Pillars FC 2-0 Enyimba International FC
\- Remo Stars FC 3-1 Kwara United FC
\- Khun Khalifat FC 2-2 Ikorodu City FC
Earlier on Saturday, Wikki Tourists and Barau FC concluded their match in a goalless draw. There are still two pending fixtures for Match Day 31: Abia Warriors versus Niger Tornadoes on March 23, and Nasarawa United facing Rivers United on the same date.
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