Rangers International were forced to settle for a frustrating goalless draw against Barau FC after dominating proceedings at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Matchday 33.
The hosts created a flurry of chances but failed to convert, with Kennechukwu Agu setting the tone early as his volley from outside the penalty area sailed over the bar.
Rangers thought they had broken the deadlock when Chidozie Iwundu powered home a header from a corner, only for the referee Bawu Buhari to rule it out despite it been a clean goal.
The pressure intensified when Emmanuel Essien struck from distance after dispossessing Jimmy Ambrose, but his effort crashed against the post.
Barau goalkeeper Chisom Chiaha was then called into action, denying Waheed Adebayo from close range as Rangers continued their onslaught inside the opening half hour.
A series of missed opportunities followed. Kenneth Igboke delivered a teasing cross that Adebayo failed to convert from point-blank range, before his own lofted volley drifted narrowly over.
Rangers profligacy continued, with Adebayo firing weakly from the edge of the box, while Wisdom Ebirim forced a stunning save from Chiaha with a powerful drive that left the goalkeeper briefly injured.
The second half resumed with Oputa testing from a 25-yard free kick, as Barau struggled to register any meaningful attempt even after 80 minutes of play.
Further chances went begging for the hosts. Igboke’s cross found Ifeanyi Onyebuchi unmarked in the area, but his effort lacked conviction, while another Igboke drive struck the side netting.
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Late on, substitute Chimobi Igwilo injected urgency down the left, delivering a cross that Iwundu headed narrowly wide in what proved Rangers’ final opportunity.
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Despite the dropped points, Rangers move to the top of the table with 55 points and will next travel to face Niger Tornadoes in Minna. Barau, meanwhile, remain 10th on 43 points and will host Remo Stars in Kano on Matchday 34.
Matchday 33 results elsewhere
Kwara United 3-0 El-Kanemi Warriors
Remo Stars 1-0 Shooting Stars SC
Katsina United 1-0 Niger Tornadoes
Kano Pillars 4-0 Bendel Insurance
Warri Wolves 2-0 Rivers United
Nasarawa United 0-1 Kun Khalifat
