Katsina United ended Rangers International’s impressive 10-game unbeaten run in the Nigeria Premier Football League with a thrilling 4-3 victory at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium. The encounter saw a frantic start, with four goals scored in the opening 20 minutes, setting the stage for a captivating match.
Midfielder Azeez Falolu opened the scoring for Katsina United in the fourth minute, but Godwin Obaje quickly equalized for Enugu Rangers six minutes later. The back-and-forth nature of the game continued as Michael Ibe put Katsina back in front in the 16th minute, only for Saviour Godwin to level the scores for Rangers two minutes later.
As the first half drew to a close, Ibe notched his second goal of the match to give Katsina United a 3-2 lead. The hosts extended their advantage early in the second half through Andrew Idoko, but Joel Odoh’s strike for Rangers in the 81st minute reduced the deficit to 4-3, setting up a tense finish.
A defeat in Katsina. We keep our heads up and hope to rise stronger.#KATRAN #NPFL24#HistoryTogether #NeverSayDie pic.twitter.com/9nhPWFEHit
— Rangers International FC (@Rangers_Intl) April 7, 2024
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In other league fixtures, Lobi Stars secured a 1-0 victory over Enyimba courtesy of Danbani Alao’s 58th-minute goal, keeping the pressure on Rangers at the top. Niger Tornadoes showcased their goal-scoring prowess with a resounding 5-0 win over relegation-threatened Gombe United, while Heartland returned to winning ways with a 3-1 victory over Sporting Lagos.
Kwara United had to rely on a penalty from Isiah Ejeh to salvage a 1-1 draw at home against Bendel Insurance, who had taken the lead through Meyiwa Oritseweyinmi in the first half. Sunshine Stars and Bayelsa United played out a 1-1 draw in Akure, with Tunde Adeniji scoring on his return to Sunshine Stars to secure a point for his side.
Reflecting on the thrilling victory over Rangers, Katsina United’s coach praised his team’s efforts, stating, “It was a fantastic performance from the boys, and I am proud of their determination to secure the win against a tough opponent like Rangers.”
The result sees Enugu Rangers cling to the top spot in the league by the slimmest of margins, with Katsina United’s victory throwing the title race wide open as the season approaches its climax. The Nigeria Premier Football League continues to serve up exciting matches and unpredictable outcomes, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
