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Monday, June 17, 2024

Enugu Rangers clinch NPFL title after eight-year wait

They’ve also secured a coveted spot in the 2024/2025 CAF Champions League.

• June 16, 2024
Enugu Rangers defeat Akwa United
Enugu Rangers[Credit; Premium Times]

Enugu Rangers, the “Flying Antelopes,” emerged victorious in the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following a convincing 2-0 win over Bendel Insurance at their home ground, the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, on Sunday.

The team’s triumph wasn’t solely reliant on their performance. Favourable results from other matches solidified coach Fidelis Ilechukwu’s team’s position at the top, fending off challenges from pursuing teams.

Kenechukwu Agu and Chidiebere Nwobodo each found the net, securing a crucial 2-0 victory for Rangers. This win marks a historic moment for the club, as it represents their first domestic league title in eight years.

Remo Stars’ 2-1 defeat to Sunshine Stars in Akure cemented Enugu Rangers’ position as champions. Chinadu Nwosu, playing for the “Akure Gunners,” netted a brace in the second half, securing their first win against Remo Stars despite Ahmed Akinyele’s consolation goal.

With their victory and the favourable results in other matches, Rangers established an unassailable five-point lead at the summit of the league, making them champions with a game to spare.

This title win signifies a new era for the Enugu-based club. Not only have they been crowned NPFL champions for the first time since 2016, but they’ve also secured a coveted spot in the 2024/2025 CAF Champions League.

The battle for the second Champions League slot and the third-place Confederation Cup position will be fiercely contested during the final matchday fixtures, with Shooting Stars, Remo Stars, and Enyimba all vying for these placements.

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