Enugu Rangers are champions of Nigeria. The Flying Antelopes sealed their ninth NPFL title with a 2-1 win over Ikorodu City on Sunday.
The match took place at Lagos's Mobolaji Johnson Arena in the final round of fixtures. Thousands of supporters packed the stadium to witness the coronation.
Rangers dominated early proceedings against a Ikorodu City side fighting to upset the title favorites. But the breakthrough came in the 30th minute.
Chidi-ebere Nwobodo fired Rangers ahead with a clinical finish. Rangers fans erupted in celebration, filling the arena with songs and chanting.
Nwobodo struck again in the 52nd minute to double Rangers' lead. The striker had now settled the tie with a composed second goal.
Ikorodu City weren't finished yet. Moses Ali pulled one back six minutes later from a corner-kick situation.
Rangers held firm in the closing stages as Ikorodu City pressed hard for an equalizer. The visitors' defensive resolve proved crucial in those final moments.
When the whistle sounded, Rangers players rushed to celebrate on the pitch. Officials and supporters joined in the jubilation across the stadium.
This ninth league crown adds to Rangers' earlier championships in 1974, 1975, 1977, 1981, 1982, 1984, 2016 and 2024. The club has cemented itself as Nigerian football's most successful side.
Technical Adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu has now won two titles in two seasons. He led Rangers to glory last year and repeated the feat this campaign.
Both teams earned praise for entertaining the Lagos crowd throughout Sunday's contest. Fans witnessed competitive football played with intensity and skill.
The NFF will present the NPFL trophy to Rangers in due course. The flying Antelopes have restored themselves to the summit of domestic football.
