Rangers International impressive 10-match unbeaten run in the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) came to an abrupt end on Sunday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu as they were beaten 1-0 at home by Shooting Stars on Match day 18.
The defeat saw the Flying Antelopes drop to 4th place in the league standings with 28 points, while Shooting Stars surged ahead into 3rd with 30 points.
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The match’s only goal came in the 27th minute when Ikouwem Utin, the former U-20 international left-back, capitalized on a lapse in concentration from Rangers’ defense to score.
Despite dominating possession in the second half, Rangers were unable to break down a resolute Shooting Stars defense, with substitute Kingsley Maduforo coming closest but missing a clear chance.
The NPFL champions’ frustrations deepened in 85th minute when center-back Ikenna Stephen blasted his teams penalty kick over the bar, ensuring that Rangers’ unbeaten streak came to an end with a frustrating 1-0 defeat.
God 💔#RANSHO#NPFL25 pic.twitter.com/mV5LNhc5Nd
— Enugu Rangers fans page (@EnuguFans29114) December 22, 2024
Shooting Stars, on the other hand, secured their second consecutive away win in the NPFL for the first time since at least the 1997 season. The victory lifted them into 3rd place, and the team will now look to build on this result as they continue their push up the league table.
Other NPFL Results:
Kwara United 1-0 Katsina United
Ismaila Gata scored the only goal of the match in the 87th minute, converting from the penalty spot to secure a vital win for Kwara United.
Nasarawa United 1-1 Rivers United
John Joshua opened the scoring for Nasarawa United in the 14th minute, while Kabir Abdullahi equalized for Rivers United with a penalty in the 50th minute.
Abia Warriors 2-0 Ikorodu City
Anthony Ijoma scored in the 10th minute, and Sunday Megwo doubled the lead in the 45th minute to give Abia Warriors a comfortable victory.
Remo Stars 2-0 Bayelsa United
Malik Jabbar starred with a brace, scoring in the 84th and 88th minutes to seal a 2-0 win for Remo Stars, who go top of the NPFL log with 33 points same points as 2nd place Rivers United.
