Fidelis Ilechukwu leads Enugu Rangers to first NPFL title in eight years

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Enugu Rangers have emerged the champions of the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after a 2-0 win over Bendel Insurance in Enugu on Sunday.

The Flying Antelopes had to do their job but results elsewhere also favoured Fidelis Ilechukwu’s side from the chasing pack as they saw out the needed historic triumph.

A goal in each half from Kenechukwu Agu and Chidiebere Nwobodo sealed a 2-0 victory for the Rangers’ domestic glory for the first time in eight years.

Remo Stars 2-1 loss to Sunshine Stars in Akure confirmed Enugu Rangers as Nigerian league winners for eight times.

Chinadu Nwosu scored a brace for the Akure Gunners in the second half to help them to their first win over the Sky Blue Stars despite Ahmed Akinyele equaliser for Remo Stars.

With the win and positive elsewhere, Rangers opened an unassailable five points lead at the summit ahead of the final day schedule.

The Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium outfit clinched their first league title since 2016 and will represent Nigeria at the 2024/2025 CAF Champions League.

The second Champions League slot and third placed Confederation Cup spot will be battled on the final Matchday fixtures between Shooting Stars, Remo Stars, and Enyimba.