Rangers International Football Club of Enugu (Enugu Rangers) have clinched the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title after a 2-0 victory over Bendel Insurance in Enugu on Sunday, with one game remaining.
The win propelled Enugu Rangers to 67 unassailable points at the top, following losses by their closest rivals, Remo Stars and Enyimba, who were defeated 2-1 by Sunshine Stars and Sporting Lagos, respectively.
This triumph marks the 8th Nigerian league title for the Flying Antelopes, making them the second most successful club in the league’s history, trailing only Enyimba, who have 9 league titles in their trophy cabinet.
After leading the league table for many weeks, the Enugu side faced the risk of losing the title if they did not secure a victory against Bendel Insurance, with Remo Stars and Enyimba ready to seize the opportunity. However, everything fell into place for Rangers on Sunday. They secured the crucial victory while their closest rivals faltered.
Enugu Rangers opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, with Kenechukwu Agu slotting in a well-placed free-kick, sending the packed Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium (Cathedral) into raptures.
The Flying Antelopes continued to press for a second goal, and their efforts were rewarded in the 65th minute when Chidiebere Nwobodo doubled the lead, easing the tension at the stadium.
Nwobodo’s goal prompted chants of “holy, holy, holy, Enugu Rangers is another champion” from the fans, as their team held on to win the game 2-0 and emerge as champions.
With 67 points, Rangers’ final league game away to Gombe United is now merely for pride, as no team can overtake them.
In addition to winning the title, Enugu Rangers automatically qualify to represent Nigeria in the 2024–2025 CAF Champions League. The fight for Nigeria’s second Champions League slot now remains between Remo Stars, Enyimba, and Shooting Stars on the last game day.