Rangers International were frustrated to a goalless draw by 10-man Kwara United in a cagey Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 10 fixture at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.
The Flying Antelopes, returning to action after last week’s postponed tie against Remo Stars, dominated early proceedings but failed to make their possession count.
Evans had the game’s first real chance when his volley was tipped away by United’s goalkeeper Nurudeen Badmos in the opening 20 minutes. The visitors almost profited from a defensive lapse three minutes later as Jimoh spilled a corner, but Iwundu recovered quickly to clear the danger.
Rangers continued to press and came close again when Iwundu’s effort, following a clever build-up involving Ejike and Nnaji, sailed narrowly off target. Just before the break, Kenechukwu Agu rattled the post with a curling free-kick that left Badmos rooted to the spot.
The second half followed a similar pattern with Rangers camped in Kwara’s half. Wisdom Ebirim fired wide from distance before being replaced by Igwilo as the hosts pushed for a breakthrough.
Kwara United, who rarely threatened going forward, were reduced to ten men late on but held firm. Agu nearly snatched a late winner in the 90th minute with another well-struck free-kick, forcing Badmos into a stunning save.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Substitute Ganiu Gberefu also went close for Rangers in stoppage time, flashing his effort across the face of goal.
Rangers, eight-time Nigerian champions, drop to 12th on the NPFL table with 12 points and next travel to Maiduguri to face El-Kanemi Warriors.
Kwara United, unbeaten in their last three matches, climb to 10th with 13 points and will host Remo Stars in Ilorin next.
READ MORE:caf-cl-mamelodi-sundowns-make-7-1-amala-and-ewedu-out-of-remo-stars
The Harmony Boys, who were knocked out in the first preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup by Ghana’s Asante Kotoko earlier this season, have shown improved form under new coach Ashifat Sulaiman following the dismissal of FA Cup-winning manager Tunde Sanni.
Elsewhere in the NPFL:
Abia Warriors 2–0 Barau
Warri Wolves 2–0 Bayelsa United
Plateau United 2–1 Enyimba
Wikki Tourists 2–0 Shooting Stars
