Rangers International produced one of their most commanding performances of the season as a Chidozie Iwundu double inspired a 4–1 victory over Bayelsa United in Enugu.
The centre-back, in the form of his life, struck twice inside 17 minutes to set the Flying Antelopes on their way. His first arrived after just ten minutes when Kenneth Agu’s half-volley was pushed into his path by goalkeeper Chisoms Chiaha, leaving Iwundu to sweep home his fourth goal of the season.
Chidozie Iwundu celebrating his goal. Photo Credit: Rangers Media
Seven minutes later, Ifeanyi Assurance delivered a superb corner and Iwundu rose unmarked to power in a bullet header his fifth of the campaign, making him the NPFL’s highest-scoring defender and one of the league’s most lethal finishers.
Iwundu signed in the summer from Sunshine Stars, the 23-year-old has been a revelation, already scoring against Plateau United, Abia Warriors and Shooting Stars.
Bayelsa United, struggling to settle, pulled one back against the run of play in the 26th minute when Isa Yusuf unleashed a stunning drive from outside the box, beating Lucky Jimoh at full stretch.
But Rangers responded immediately. The hosts continued to dominate set pieces, with Assurance’s corners repeatedly troubling the Prosperity Boys. Iwundu almost completed a hat-trick when another header deflected behind, before Agu attempted a cheeky effort directly from the resulting corner.
Iwundu is now the joint highest goal scorer for Rangers this season. Photo Credit: Rangers Media
Godwin Obaje then came close to restoring Rangers’ two-goal cushion, heading just wide from a Kenneth Igboke cross.
The pressure finally told when Rangers won a free-kick 25 yards out. Agu, renowned for his dead-ball ability, curled home a brilliant effort aided by a distracting run from Obaje to make it 3–1 in the 35th minute.
Kenechukwu Agu has now scored back to back free kicks in the NPFL. Photo Credit: Rangers Media
Three minutes later, the stadium erupted. Young dribbling sensation Chimobi Igwilo picked up the ball in midfield, glided past a cluster of Bayelsa United players, and weaved into the box before finishing calmly for his first league goal of the season.
READ MORE:iwueke-returns-as-enugu-swan-chairman-vows-continued-growth
The youngster’s strike echoed his breakout moment last season, when he scored and assisted in a 4–0 win over Katsina United on 11 May 2025 the last time Rangers hit four or more in an NPFL match.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Rangers controlled the second half with maturity, managing the game to seal their biggest win of the season. The victory lifts the eight-time champions to fourth place with 25 points, while Bayelsa United drop to 14th on 20 points.
NPFL Matchday 16 – Other Results
Kano Pillars 2–1 Kun Khalifat
Kwara United 2–0 Niger Tornadoes
Abia Warriors 1–1 Rivers United
Wikki Tourists 0–0 Ikorodu City
Remo Stars 2–1 Enyimba
Plateau United 1–0 Warri Wolves
