Enugu Rangers faced a setback in their matchday 36 game against Shooting Stars at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, yesterday.
Despite their strong form this season, the Rangers were edged out by a single goal scored by 28-year-old Christian Pyagbara in the 13th minute. This defeat marked their 10th loss of the season, after their controversial matchday 35 against Enyimba FC was suspended.
However, the loss against Shooting Stars did not alter Enugu Rangers’ position at the top of the NPFL standings.
They remain first with 64 points from 36 games, holding a slim two-point lead over second-placed Remo Stars. Enyimba and Shooting Stars are close behind, sitting four and five points adrift, respectively.
To clinch the NPFL title, Rangers need to secure at least one win and one draw from their remaining two league fixtures, provided Remo Stars do not drop points in their final games.
Promotion to NPFL
In related news, Ikorodu City will make their debut in Nigeria’s top football league after securing promotion through the NNL Super 8 playoff.
They, along with Beyond Limits from the Southern Conference, and Elkanemi Warriors and Nasarawa United from the Northern Conference, earned their places in the NPFL. Elkanemi Warriors sealed their promotion by defeating Sokoto United 4-1, while Nasarawa United secured their spot with a 2-1 victory over Sporting Supreme.
As the NPFL season nears its conclusion, all eyes will be on Enugu Rangers to see if they can hold their nerve and secure the championship.
People actually turned up for Shooting Stars today at Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan as they beat Rangers.
I love that Nigerians are beginning to take our local matches serious. pic.twitter.com/pJfbUAeyRz
— Benkingsley Nwashara (@Benking443) June 12, 2024
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