Rangers turn focus to NPFL title race after Champions League exit

Rangers International will switch their attention to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) when they visit Rivers United in Matchday 11 after their CAF Champions League campaign ended at the hands of MC Alger.

The defending champions were eliminated by the Algerian club following a 3-2 aggregate defeat. Fidelis Ilechukwu’s side must now concentrate on their domestic title defence, starting with a trip to the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt.

Rangers will be seeking a return to winning form against Rivers United as they attempt to strengthen their position in the NPFL title race.

The Enugu-based club confirmed the change in focus in a post on its official X account.

“Focus shifts to the next battle! ⚔️🔴⚪️ We travel to Port Harcourt to face Rivers United FC in our next NPFL fixture. The quest for those crucial three points continues. 🦅💪,” Rangers wrote.

Rivers United lead the NPFL standings with 17 points from 10 matches. Rangers also have 17 points, although they have played two matches fewer than their upcoming opponents.

That leaves the two clubs firmly involved in the title contest as the league campaign develops. For Rangers, the fixture offers an immediate opportunity to respond to their continental disappointment, while Rivers United will be aiming to preserve their position at the top of the table.

The match is therefore a significant test for both teams, with Rangers looking to restart their domestic campaign positively and Rivers United seeking to maintain their unbeaten start.

By Adeboye Amosu