Rangers International moved within touching distance of a record ninth Nigeria Premier Football League title after a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Bendel Insurance at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.
In a tense encounter with the championship race finely balanced, Godwin Obaje struck twice to keep the Flying Antelopes in control of their destiny heading into the final day.
Rangers started brightly and could have taken an early lead when Ifeanyi Assurance broke through, only to lift his close-range effort over the bar.
Assurance was again at the centre of the action in the 15th minute, showing excellent control inside the box before laying off to Wisdom Ebirim, who blazed over from a promising position.
The breakthrough arrived three minutes later. Daniel Eni delivered a teasing free-kick from the left channel and Obaje rose highest to head home his 13th goal of the season.
Rangers continued to press. Assurance released Eni down the left and his initial effort was saved by Joshua Baba, with Obaje unable to convert the rebound on the volley after the follow-up cross.
Despite Rangers dominance, Bendel Insurance struck back in the 39th minute when Alex Oweifaleya unleashed a powerful 25-yard free-kick that flew past the goalkeeper to level the contest.
After the break, Rangers pushed for a response. Assurance’s well-struck free-kick forced another fine save from Baba, while Chidozie Iwundu saw a header cleared off the line by Adamu Yazid in a dramatic spell of pressure.
Ibrahim Yusuf also went close after excellent work from Assurance, but his effort was blocked inside the area.
The decisive moment came when Chidiebere Nwobodo was bundled over in the box, earning Rangers a penalty.
Obaje stepped up confidently, sending Baba the wrong way to complete his brace and move to 14 goals for the season—now top of the NPFL scoring charts.
Assurance, impressive throughout, almost capped his display with a long-range strike that flashed narrowly across goal.
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The result leaves Rangers at the top of the table with a one-point advantage over Rivers United, who won in a 3–2 away to Wikki Tourists in Bauchi on matchday 37.
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With one game remaining, Rangers will travel to face Ikorodu City in Lagos, while Rivers United host Katsina United. The equation is simple: the Flying Antelopes must better Rivers result to secure the title.
