Rangers International were forced to a goalless draw by newly promoted Kun Khalifat in their opening Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clash at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.
The Flying Antelopes dominated the first half, enjoying 85% possession, with Chidiebere Nwobodo, Kelechi Ogbodo, and Emmanuel Essine dictating play.
Goalkeeper Akpan Nsikak-obong was kept busy, denying headers from Iwundu and long-range efforts from Joel Odoh and Kenechukwu Agu.
Kun Khalifat, making their topflight debut, offered little attacking threat before halftime but improved after the break.
Substitute Ifeanyi Daniel twice tested Rangers from distance, while Ahmed Yahaya nearly stunned the home side late on with a free-kick, forcing a fine stop from Abine George.
READ MORE:abdul-adama-wins-nigerias-first-ever-medal-at-world-aquatics-championships
Rangers’ best chance came in the 80th minute when Nwobodo went one-on-one but failed to convert, while youngster Chimobi Igwilo and Wisdom Ebirim also missed late opportunities.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL
The result mirrors Rangers’ 2023/24 league opener, when they also played out a goalless draw against El Kanemi Warriors.
Elsewhere on matchday one:
Shooting Stars 0-1 Bayelsa United
Abia Warriors 1-0 Kano Pillars
Wikki Tourists 1-0 Plateau United
Barau FC 0-0 Enyimba
El Kanemi Warriors 2-0 Bendel Insurance
Katsina United 0-1 Warri Wolves
Kwara United 0-0 Ikorodu City
