Rangers International scored a stoppage-time equaliser to earn a 1-1 draw against Bendel Insurance in the Nigeria Premier Football League matchday 17 opener at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.
A tight first half ended goalless, with Rangers finding it difficult to break down a compact Insurance defence, despite the visitors arriving as the league’s fourth-placed side.
The hosts took the lead in the 81st minute when Kayode Oke peeled away from the Rangers backline. His initial effort was blocked, but he recovered to deliver a cross that Promise Anyanwu turned home to put Insurance ahead.
Just as Insurance looked set for a consecutive home victory over the Flying Antelopes, Rangers struck deep into added time. Chidozie Iwundu’s free kick was turned into the net for an own goal on 93 minutes, handing the eight-time champions a dramatic equaliser.
Iwundu celebrating alongside his Rangers teammates after scoring against Bayelsa United on match week 16. The center back has scored 5 goals this season. Photo Credit: Rangers Media
The result means Insurance have managed just one win in their last six (2D 4L) NPFL meetings with Rangers. They remain 14th on the table with 20 points, having failed to secure back-to-back home victories, though they are unbeaten in their last five matches.
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Rangers, who had failed to score in their previous two trips to Benin City, picked up their fifth point on the road this season from one win and two draws. They stay fourth with 26 points, with the rest of matchday 17 fixtures to be played on Sunday.
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Next up, Rangers host high-flying Ikorodu City at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, while Bendel Insurance travel to Abeokuta to face champions Remo Stars in matchday 18 next week.
