Ex-champions Remo Stars relegated as Rangers claim 9th NPFL title

Rangers International of Enugu won the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) title after a 2-1 win over Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Sunday.

This is the ninth league title in the Coal City club’s history.

The Flying Antelopes won the high-stakes encounter that decided both the league winner and Confederations Cup representative, scoring once in each half to claim the precious three points that sealed the title for the Fidelis Ilechukwu-led team.

Captain Chidiebere Nwobodo scored both goals, with Shehu Dikko, the national sports commission chairman, and Bukola Olopade, director-general, respectively, in attendance.

Rangers, who stormed Lagos with fans for the title decoder, took the lead in the 30th minute when the skipper produced a spectacular finish to stun the hosts, before doubling the visitors’ advantage from a rebound for 2-0.

Ikorodu City reduced the deficit, but Rangers held on to claim the needed points for the title win.

Rangers finish the season with 68 points, one point ahead of Rivers United, who also won 3-0 in their fixture.

The Flying Antelopes claim their second title in three seasons, and their ninth title brings them level with Enyimba, their oriental rivals, as the two most successful clubs in the league.

Rangers will lead Nigeria to the CAF Champions League next season, alongside Rivers United.

The Ikenne-based club’s relegation was confirmed following Kun Khalifat’s 3-1 win over Wikki Tourists, hours after the club could only manage a point at Bendel Insurance.

Remo Stars joined El Kanemi Warriors, Bayelsa United, and Wikki Tourists as the four relegated clubs this season.

Remo Stars’ relegation comes after winning the NPFL last season. They become the first NPFL champions to be relegated during their title defence.

The match in Owerri had been affected by rain and was nearly called off and rescheduled for Monday, but it went ahead after a lengthy delay as groundsmen improved the waterlogged pitch.

Wikki Tourists took the lead in the ninth minute, but Khalifat equalised in the first half, before netting twice in the second half to claim the much-needed three points.

Remo Stars needed a win to retain their NPFL status, and they took the lead in the first half.

The deposed NPFL champions, who have the worst defence in the league, attempted to defend their lead, but saw their effort shattered by a Bendel Insurance equaliser deep into added time.

Remo Stars end the season with 47 points alongside Kwara United, but the Kunle Soname-sponsored team’s worse goal difference confirmed their exit from the NPFL.

The Sky Blues return to the Nigeria National League after five consecutive seasons in the top flight, suffering their third relegation in the club’s history.