In a triumphant display of football, Enugu Rangers secured their eighth Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title on Sunday, decisively beating Bendel Insurance 2-0 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu. This victory, combined with losses by their closest rivals, propelled the Flying Antelopes to an unassailable 67 points, crowning them champions with one match to spare. The NPFL Matchweek 37 Result saw the Rangers assert their dominance, ensuring no other team could catch up in the final stretch of the season.
The atmosphere was electric at the Cathedral, with thousands of passionate Rangers fans filling the stands, hoping to witness their team clinch the coveted title. The stakes were high, and the pressure palpable, as anything short of a win could have jeopardized Rangers’ title ambitions with Remo Stars and Enyimba lurking just behind them on the league table.
Rangers began the match with intensity and purpose, dominating possession and creating several early chances. Their persistence paid off in the 32nd minute when Kenechukwu Agu stepped up to take a free-kick just outside the penalty area. With precision and finesse, Agu curled the ball into the top corner, leaving the Bendel Insurance goalkeeper with no chance. The stadium erupted in celebration as the home side took a crucial lead.
The Flying Antelopes continued to press forward, seeking to extend their advantage and put the game beyond doubt. Their efforts were rewarded in the 65th minute when Chidiebere Nwobodo latched onto a through ball, calmly slotting it past the goalkeeper to make it 2-0. Nwobodo’s goal sent the crowd into a frenzy, with chants of “holy holy holy Enugu Rangers is another champion” echoing around the stadium.
Despite Bendel Insurance’s attempts to mount a comeback, Rangers’ defence remained resolute, ensuring there would be no late drama. The final whistle was met with scenes of jubilation as players, coaches, and fans celebrated a hard-earned victory and the confirmation of their league triumph. With 67 points, Rangers’ last league game away to Gombe United is now merely a formality, as no team can surpass them in the standings.
Adding to Rangers’ triumph, their closest competitors faltered in their respective matches. Remo Stars succumbed to a 2-1 defeat against Sunshine Stars, with Chinedu Nwosu scoring twice (60’, 80’) for the home side, while Ahmed Akinyele’s penalty (72’) was not enough to rescue a point for Remo Stars. Enyimba also fell short, losing 2-1 to Sporting Lagos. Godwin Odibo’s injury-time goal (45+’) and Jonathan Alukwu’s strike (84’) secured the win for Sporting Lagos, despite Chijioke Mbaoma’s penalty (73’) for Enyimba.
Elsewhere in the league, dramatic matches unfolded across the country, showcasing the competitiveness and excitement of the NPFL. The NPFL Matchweek 37 Result featured thrilling encounters:
- Plateau United and Kano Pillars played to a 1-1 draw. Rabiu Ali (62’) gave Kano Pillars the lead, but Sam Pam Jr equalized for Plateau United just two minutes later (64’).
- Lobi Stars edged Kwara United in a thrilling 4-3 encounter. Goals from Waheed Adebayo (20’ PEN), Francis Odinaka (25’), Alao Danbani (77’ PEN), and Kumaga Suur (85’) sealed the win for Lobi Stars, while Kwara United responded with strikes from Emmanuel Ogbole (2’), Anthony Omaka (12’), and Garba Abubakar (58’).
- Katsina United secured a comfortable 2-0 win over Doma United, thanks to goals from Samson Olasupo (35’) and Azeez Falolu (49’).
- Rivers United dismantled Gombe United 6-0 in a dominant display. Shedrack Asiegbu scored twice (10’, 40’), Kazie Enyinnaya (50’), Nyima Nwagua (63’), and Seiyefa Jackson (82’, 88’) completed the rout.
- Heartland managed a narrow 1-0 victory over Tornadoes, with Chukwudi Esobe scoring the decisive goal in the 18th minute.
- Bayelsa United pulled off a late 2-1 win against 3SC. John Bassey was the hero, scoring twice (76’, 90+’) to secure the win after Christian Pyagbara had given 3SC the lead in the 26th minute.
- Abia Warriors triumphed 2-0 over Akwa United with Sunday Megwo netting a brace (4’, 51’).
With this victory, Enugu Rangers reaffirm their status as one of Nigeria’s footballing powerhouses, securing their place as the second most successful club in NPFL history, trailing only Enyimba’s nine titles. The Flying Antelopes will now look to cap off their successful season with a final flourish against Gombe United, celebrating their achievement with their loyal supporters.
As the league approaches its conclusion, the drama and excitement of NPFL Matchweek 37 will be remembered for Rangers’ triumph, thrilling matches, and the fierce competition that defines Nigerian football.
