NPFL: Rangers crowned Champions after defeating Ikorodu City in Lagos

Femi Fabunmi

Rangers International F.C. sealed the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title in dramatic fashion after a clinical brace from Chidiebere Nwobodo inspired a 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City F.C. at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos State, on the final day of the 2025/2026 season.

Nwobodo opened the scoring in the 30th minute to settle early nerves for the visitors before adding his second few minutes after the break  to put the result beyond doubt and confirm Rangers’ status as champions.

The Enugu-based side produced a composed display away from home to secure the title at the conclusion of Matchday 38.

However, Ikorodu pulled one back in the 58th minute through Moses Ali when he nodded home from a corner kick to peg the visitors back

The victory crowned an impressive campaign for Rangers, who maintained consistency throughout the season and delivered when it mattered most.

Their triumph also marks another major achievement for the club as they return to the summit of Nigerian club football.

Elsewhere, second-placed Rivers United F.C. kept up their side of the battle with a victory over Katsina United F.C. in Port Harcourt.

However, despite securing all three points, Rivers United were unable to overtake Rangers due to the Enugu club’s decisive away win in Lagos.

The result meant Rivers United ended the campaign in second position, settling for a place in next season’s CAF Champions League after another strong domestic season.

Meanwhile, Shooting Stars S.C. completed the continental qualification picture by finishing third on the NPFL table to claim the final available continental ticket.

With the season now concluded, Rangers International and Rivers United will represent Nigeria in next season’s CAF Champions League, while Shooting Stars will campaign in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The final-day outcomes brought an end to another competitive NPFL season, with clubs now turning attention toward Federation Cup, preparations for continental assignments and the next domestic campaign.

The NPFL has come to an end after match 38 games held across all centres in the country