Nigeria Leagues
2023/24 NPFL MD5: Rangers secure big win over Pillars to reach top of the table
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Rangers International FC had to come from a goal down to earn a 4-1 win against Kano Pillars as Matchday five of the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season gets underway on Saturday.
Mohammed Yakubu had given the Sai Masi Gida the lead in the 11th minute before Rangers’ resurgence.
Godwin Obaje equalised for Fidelis Ilechukwu’s side in the 20th minute from the penalty spot as the game ended 1-1 after the first period.
The host came out smoking in the second half and were rewarded with three handsome goals.
In the 54th minute, Isaac Saviour gave the hosts the lead for the first time in the encounter.
Nwaodu Chuwkudi increased the lead to 3-1 in the 57th minute before completing his brace three minutes later.
The win moved Rangers to the top of the table with ten points after five outings ahead of Sunday’s set of games.
Elsewhere, Sadiq Shuaibu scored the winner as Gombe United pipped Plateau United 1-0 in a match that saw a player from each side receiving a red card in the additional minutes of the second half.
Bendel Insurance and Akwa United settled for a 0-0 draw at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, Edo State.
Six games will be held on Sunday in the NPFL while the fixture between Enyimba FC and Remo Stars has been postponed due to the People’s Elephant’s recent engagement in the African Football League (AFL).
NPFL Results
Gombe United 1-0 Plateau United
Bendel Insurance 0-0 Akwa United
Rangers International 4-1 Kano Pillars
Sunday Fixtures
Rivers United vs Lobi Stars
Shooting Stars vs Doma United
Katsina United vs Sunshine Stars
Abia Warriors vs Heartland FC
Bayelsa United vs Kwara United
Sporting Lagos vs Niger Tornadoes
