NPFL: Final-day drama beckons as Rangers, Rivers fight on ( Full Results)

The battle for the Nigeria Premier Football League title will be decided on the final day of the season after important victories for Rangers International and Rivers United on Sunday.

Rangers remain at the top of the table with 65 points after defeating Bendel Insurance 2-1, while Rivers United stayed close behind on 64 points following a thrilling 3-2 win over Wikki Tourists.

Rangers took the lead in Enugu in the 15th minute through experienced striker Godwin Obaje. Bendel Insurance equalised before halftime after Alex Oweilayefa scored in the 41st minute.

Rangers pushed harder in the second half and got the winning goal from a penalty in the 65th minute.

The Enugu club is now close to winning another league title. Only Enyimba have won the Nigerian top-flight league nine times.

Rivers United also showed determination by coming from behind twice before scoring a late winner in the 85th minute against Wikki Tourists.

Even though Rivers United are still chasing the title, Rangers have a better goal difference. Rangers have +19, while Rivers United have +10. This means Rangers only need to win their final match to become champions.

Under coach Finidi George, Rivers United have been strong defensively this season, conceding only 29 goals before this round of matches.

Other Results

Defending champions Remo Stars boosted their survival hopes with a 2-1 comeback win against Bayelsa United.

Bayelsa United took an early lead through Ofem Nneoyi, but goals from Alex Oyowah and Victor Mbaoma gave Remo Stars the victory.

The defeat confirmed Bayelsa United’s relegation to the Nigeria National League alongside Wikki Tourists.

Kun Khalifat FC also improved their survival chances with a 2-0 away win over Abia Warriors, thanks to two first-half goals from Uchechukwu Onuoha.

In Ibadan, Shooting Stars defeated Barau FC 1-0 to keep their continental qualification hopes alive.

Other matches saw:

Nasarawa United beat Plateau United 1-0

Kano Pillars defeat Warri Wolves 1-0 through a penalty scored by veteran captain Rabiu Ali

Full-Time Scores

3SC 1-0 Barau FC

El-Kanemi 0-0 Tornadoes

Kwara United 2-0 Enyimba

Remo Stars 2-1 Bayelsa United

Rangers 2-1 Bendel Insurance

Katsina United 4-1 Ikorodu City

Wikki Tourists 2-3 Rivers United

Abia Warriors 0-2 Kun Khalifat

Kano Pillars 1-0 Warri Wolves