Enugu Rangers win 9th NPFL title after dramatic final-day victory
Rangers International F.C. on Sunday emerged champions of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season after defeating Ikorodu City F.C. 2-1 in a tense match day 38 encounter.
The victory at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena secured Rangers’ ninth league crown, drawing them level with Enyimba F.C. as the most successful clubs in NPFL history.
The encounter, widely regarded as the standout fixture of the final matchday, lived up to expectations as both sides approached the contest with everything at stake.
Rangers arrived in Lagos knowing that only victory would guarantee them the title, with second-placed Rivers United F.C. waiting to capitalise on any slip from the league leaders.
Ikorodu City, meanwhile, also had plenty to fight for, as a win would significantly boost their hopes of securing continental football next season.
The decisive fixture was played before a massive crowd of supporters and football enthusiasts.
Travelling supporters of the Flying Antelopes arrived in large numbers to cheer their team to victory.
The triumph secured Rangers’ ninth league title and further strengthened the club’s position among Nigeria’s most successful football sides.
The Enugu-based club previously won the league in 1974, 1975, 1977, 1981, 1982, 1984, 2016 and 2024.
Sunday’s success also marked another major achievement for Rangers Technical Adviser, Fidelis Ilechukwu.
Ilechukwu guided the Flying Antelopes to the title in 2024 and has now delivered a second league crown for the club in 2026.
Rangers began the match with confidence and controlled possession against a determined Ikorodu City side seeking to upset the title ambitions of the visitors.
The breakthrough came in the 30th minute when Chidiebere Nwobodo calmly finished a well-worked attacking move to give Rangers the lead.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among Rangers supporters, who filled sections of the stadium with songs, drums and chants throughout the contest.
Rangers extended their advantage in the 52nd minute through Nwobodo, who completed his brace with another composed finish.
Ikorodu City responded strongly and reduced the deficit in the 58th minute through substitute Moses Ali.
Ali capitalised on a corner-kick situation to score and revive hopes of a comeback for the Lagos-based side.
The closing stages produced intense pressure from Ikorodu City as Rangers defended resolutely to protect their slender advantage.
Rangers players, technical officials and supporters erupted in celebration after the final whistle confirmed their status as NPFL champions.
The victory completed an impressive campaign for the Flying Antelopes, who displayed consistency and resilience throughout the season.
Football fans at the arena applauded both teams for producing an entertaining and competitive finale to the 2025/2026 NPFL campaign.
The title success is expected to boost Rangers’ preparations for continental competitions and strengthen confidence within the club ahead of next season.
