Enugu Rangers International Football Club triumphed in the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Sunday, securing a decisive 2-0 victory over Bendel Insurance at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, popularly known as the Cathedral. The win solidified their position at the top of the table with 67 points, making it mathematically impossible for any other team to overtake them with just one game left in the season.
The victory was crucial as Rangers’ closest rivals, Remo Stars and Enyimba, both suffered 2-1 defeats to Sunshine Stars and Sporting Lagos, respectively. This marked a significant milestone for the Flying Antelopes as they clinched their 8th Nigerian league title, placing them second in the all-time NPFL champions list, just behind Enyimba, who have nine titles.
Despite leading the league for several weeks, Rangers faced immense pressure heading into the match against Bendel Insurance. A win was imperative to maintain their championship aspirations with Remo Stars and Enyimba waiting to capitalize on any slip-up. However, Rangers rose to the occasion, delivering a performance befitting champions.
The breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when Kenechukwu Agu expertly converted a well-placed free-kick, igniting celebrations among the home supporters. The goal set the tone for the rest of the match as Rangers continued to dominate.
Their persistence paid off in the 65th minute when Chidiebere Nwobodo found the back of the net, doubling Rangers’ lead and easing the tension at the Cathedral. The stadium erupted in chants of “holy, holy, holy, Enugu Rangers is another champion,” as the fans celebrated their team’s impending triumph.
The final whistle confirmed Rangers’ 2-0 victory, ensuring they would lift the NPFL trophy with one game to spare. Their last league fixture, an away match against Gombe United, now holds no bearing on their title win, serving only as a formality and a chance to cap off their stellar season with another strong performance.
In addition to their league success, Enugu Rangers have also secured a spot in the 2024/2025 CAF Champions League, representing Nigeria on the continental stage. The race for the second Nigerian Champions League slot remains open, with Remo Stars, Enyimba, and Shooting Stars vying for the coveted position on the final game day.
Rangers’ latest triumph not only adds to their illustrious history but also reaffirms their status as one of the premier football clubs in Nigeria. The team’s resilience and excellence throughout the season have earned them deserved recognition and a place in NPFL history.
