Rangers International were denied a dramatic late equaliser as a controversial decision overshadowed Rivers United’s 1-0 victory that kept them top of the Nigeria Premier Football League at the halfway stage of the season.
Chidozie Iwundu headed the ball into an empty net in the 90th minute at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, but referee Bashir Musa Mouktar ruled out the goal, allowing Rivers United to hold on for a result that moved them four points clear at the summit.
Boluwaji Sholumade’s 52nd-minute header ultimately separated the sides, but the closing moments proved decisive in a tightly contested encounter between two of Nigeria’s most successful clubs.
Photo Credit: Rangers Media
Rivers United controlled much of the first half without breaking the deadlock. Okon Aniekeme forced an early save in the 16th minute, while Maclyn Biokpo had a goal ruled out for offside soon after.
Play was briefly halted midway through the half following a clash of heads that required medical attention, disrupting the rhythm of the game. Wasiu Falolu later sent a free-kick wide as the hosts continued to apply pressure, but both sides went into the interval level at 0-0.
The breakthrough came seven minutes after the restart when Sholumade rose highest to head Rivers United into the lead.
Photo Credit: Rangers Media
Rangers pushed forward in search of an equaliser and were almost rewarded when Rivers United goalkeeper Ani Ozomena produced a fine close-range save in the 58th minute.
The hosts made a series of substitutions to manage the game, introducing Timothy Zachariah and Osimaga Duke just after the hour mark, before further changes followed late on.
The defining moment arrived in stoppage time when a long throw caused confusion in the Rivers United defence, allowing Iwundu to head into the net with the goalkeeper beaten. The referee, however, disallowed the goal, prompting protests from the Rangers players and officials.
The final whistle confirmed Rivers United’s place at the top of the NPFL table on 37 points after 19 matches, while eight-time champions Rangers remain sixth on 29 points.
Photo Credit: Rangers Media
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Elsewhere, Abia Warriors moved into second place with a 1-0 away win over Plateau United in Jos, Kano Pillars beat Nasarawa United 3-0, and Ikorodu City edged Remo Stars 1-0.
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Abia Warriors end the first half of the season on 33 points, with Ikorodu City third on 32, as the NPFL goes into a mid-season break before resuming on 13 January 2026. The transfer window opens during the break.
