Rangers International sealed their first victory of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League ( NPFL) campaign with a 2-0 triumph over Plateau United at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.
The Flying Antelopes, who began the season with a draw against Kun Khalifa and a defeat at Warri Wolves, finally clicked into gear with a strong performance on Matchday 3.
Goalkeeper Luck Abdullahi was handed his first start of the season, while CHAN Eagles striker Godwin Obaje returned to line up for his first game of the season, with Technical Adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu away on Super Eagles duty, chief coach Ekeh Ekenedilichukwu took charge.
Rangers began with intensity as Chidiebere Nwobodo and Godwin Obaje caused early problems for the Plateau defence, but goalkeeper Amah produced several fine saves to keep the visitors level.
The breakthrough came on the stroke of half-time when Chidozie Iwundu, a summer signing from Sunshine Stars, rose highest to head in Agu’s free-kick the centre-back’s first goal for the club.
Chidozie Iwundu in action for Rangers International on match day one of the NPFL. Photo Credit: Rangers media
Plateau United almost equalised late on when Dashang struck the post, but Rangers held firm.
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Their reward came in the 80th minute when substitute Wisdom Ebirimi surged down the right and crossed for Nwobodo to finish from close range, sealing a morale-boosting victory.
Midfield lynchpin Kenechukwu Agu bagged his first assist of the season. Photo Credit: Rangers Media
The result was particularly sweet for Rangers, who lost this fixture 1-0 in Enugu last season. Plateau United, meanwhile, are rock bottom having lost all 3 matches this season.
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The peace boys gaffer Shola Adegun is under intense pressure having joined from Sporting Lagos and his team are the only team yet to pick any point.
NPFL Matchday 3 Results
Wikki 1-0 Abia Warriors
Katsina Utd 1-0 Kano Pillars
Remo Stars 1-0 Wolves
3SC 1-1 Ikorodu City
Kwara Utd 2-0 Kun Khalifa
Tornadoes 1-0 Bayelsa Utd
Barau 1-1 Bendel Insurance
El-Kanemi 0-0 Rivers Utd
Enyimba 0-0 Nasarawa Utd
