Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions Enugu Rangers have dismissed allegations by Super Eagles winger Moses Simon that he was denied a contract because he was not of Igbo origin, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Paris FC forward made the claim during an interview with UrbanDwellSport, where he recounted an unsuccessful trial with the Flying Antelopes earlier in his career.

Simon revealed that he trained with Rangers for three months and believed his performances had earned him a professional contract after captaining the club's screening team.

"I went to Rangers and trained with them for three months. I wasn't signed, but I was training with them. In fact, I was the captain of the 'screening' team," Simon said.

"I've never told anyone this story; this is the first time, but it was a disgrace, I was dropped because I was not Igbo.

"I was there for three months, and a guy came I have forgotten his name, he's an Ibo guy, he just trained one week, and they signed him, professional contract, they said because I was from the north or something."

Responding to the allegations, Rangers released an official statement on the club's X account, firmly rejecting the accusation and insisting the club has never operated any form of ethnic discrimination.

"While we respect every player's right to recount his personal journey, it is important to clearly state that Rangers International FC has never maintained, and does not maintain, any policy of discrimination based on ethnicity, tribe, religion or place of origin," the statement read.

"For over five decades, Rangers has stood as one of Nigeria's foremost national football institutions. Although proudly rooted in Enugu and the South-East, the club has always belonged to Nigeria.

"Throughout its rich history, Rangers has been home to players, coaches and officials from virtually every part of the country and the continent, all united by one objective: excellence on the football pitch."

The seven-time Nigerian champions stressed that recruitment decisions have always been based on footballing merit rather than ethnic background.

"The club's recruitment philosophy has always been based on footballing ability, character, discipline and commitment, not ethnic identity.

"Thousands of players have passed through Rangers over the years. Some earned contracts, others did not. Such decisions are part of football and are influenced by numerous sporting, technical and administrative considerations. It would therefore be inaccurate to characterise Rangers as an institution that discriminates against players because of their ethnicity."

The club further stated that its current administration remains committed to professionalism, meritocracy, diversity and inclusion, with players recruited from across Nigeria and beyond for its men's, women's and youth teams.

"Rangers remains committed to providing equal opportunities to every talented player regardless of ethnic background, religion or geographical origin. The values that define this great club are excellence, integrity, discipline, hard work and unity.

"As one of Nigeria's most historic football institutions, Rangers will continue to serve as a symbol of national integration, where talent speaks louder than tribe, and performance remains the ultimate criterion for opportunity."

Super Eagles winger Moses Simon has claimed he was denied the opportunity to sign for Enugu Rangers at the start of his career because he was not of Igbo origin, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Paris FC star made the revelation during an interview with UrbanDwellSport, recalling a disappointing experience after spending three months on trial with the seven-time Nigeria Premier Football League champions.

According to Simon, he impressed the coaching staff throughout the screening exercise and was even appointed captain of the trial team, leaving him convinced that he had earned a professional contract.

However, the winger alleged that he was overlooked despite his performances, while another player was signed after only a brief trial.

"I went to Rangers and trained with them for three months. I wasn't signed, but I was training with them. In fact, I was the captain of the 'screening' team.

"I've never told anyone this story; this is the first time, but it was a disgrace. I was dropped because I was not Igbo.

"I was there for three months, and a guy came I have forgotten his name; he's an Ibo guy, he just trained one week, and they signed him, professional contract, they said because I was from the north or something."

Despite the setback, Simon went on to build a successful career in Europe.

In January 2014, he signed a three-year contract with Slovak club Tren?ín and made his league debut in a 1-1 draw against MFK Košice.

He also featured in the UEFA Europa League during the 2014/15 campaign, making his continental debut in Tren?ín's second qualifying round tie against Serbian side Vojvodina Novi Sad.

The Nigerian international later enjoyed successful spells with Belgian club Gent and Spanish side Levante before joining French outfit Nantes on an initial loan move in August 2019. Nantes eventually exercised the option to make the transfer permanent following his impressive performances.

During his time at Gent, Simon won the Belgian Pro League title and the Belgian Super Cup, while he also lifted the Coupe de France with Nantes.

On the international stage, the winger has represented Nigeria at four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, featuring at the 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2025 editions.

Nigeria's representatives in the 2026/27 CAF inter-club competitions will play their home matches away from their traditional stadiums after their venues failed to secure approval from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The affected clubs are Rangers International, Rivers United and Shooting Stars, all of whom will now be required to adopt alternative venues for their home fixtures in the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup.

CAF has approved only three stadiums in Nigeria to host continental club matches. They are the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, and the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.

As a result, the three clubs are expected to select one of the approved venues as their temporary home ground for their respective continental campaigns.

The decision means the teams will be forced to play in unfamiliar environments and away from their traditional fan bases, a situation that could affect the home advantage they would ordinarily enjoy during the 2026/27 CAF inter-club competitions.

Nigerian clubs Rangers, Rivers United and Shooting Stars will begin their quests for continental success in September after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiled the fixture schedule for the 2026/27 CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

According to the timetable released by CAF, the opening preliminary round of both competitions will be played from September 4 to 6, 2026, with the return legs scheduled for September 11 to 13.

Teams that progress will advance to the second preliminary round, where the first-leg matches will take place between October 16 and 18, while the decisive return fixtures are slated for October 23 to 25.

The group stage of both tournaments is expected to get underway at the end of November, with clubs across the continent battling for continental honours.

CAF has also retained its enhanced prize money structure, with the winners of the CAF Champions League set to receive $6 million, while the CAF Confederation Cup champions will earn $4 million.

Nigeria will be represented by Rangers and Rivers United in the CAF Champions League after both clubs secured qualification through their performances in the Nigeria Premier Football League.

In the CAF Confederation Cup, Shooting Stars will fly the Nigerian flag alongside the winners of the 2026 President Federation Cup, completing the country's quartet of representatives in continental competition.

The Nigerian clubs will be aiming to make a strong impression and improve the country's standing in African club football when the new continental season gets underway.

Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State has announced a generous reward package for players and officials of Rangers International F.C. following the club’s successful 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League title-winning campaign, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Speaking during a reception organised in honour of the league champions, Governor Mbah approved a total cash reward of ?150 million for the club.

According to the governor, ?100 million will be shared among the players, while ?50 million has been allocated to members of the management team in recognition of their contributions to Rangers’ title-winning success.

Beyond the financial rewards, the Enugu State government also approved plots of land for all players and management staff, with each beneficiary set to receive a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O).

Governor Mbah further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development by announcing plans to upgrade the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium ahead of Rangers’ participation in next season’s CAF Champions League.

The planned renovations are also expected to prepare the stadium for the hosting of the Coal City Games 2026, Enugu State’s flagship sporting event.

The rewards package highlights the state government’s appreciation of Rangers’ achievement and its determination to strengthen the club’s competitiveness on the continental stage.

Popularly known as the Flying Antelopes, Rangers enjoyed a remarkable campaign, winning the NPFL title and securing qualification for the prestigious CAF Champions League.

The announcement has been widely welcomed by supporters and football stakeholders, who see the incentives as a strong commitment to sports development and professional football in Enugu State.

The league triumph further reinforces Rangers’ position as one of Nigeria’s most successful football clubs and adds another memorable chapter to the rich football heritage of the Coal City.

With a return to continental football on the horizon, Rangers will now look to build on their domestic success and make a strong impression against Africa’s top clubs in the CAF Champions League.

Enugu Rangers head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has said he will decide on his future at the club after returning from Super Eagles duty at the Unity Cup in London.

Ilechukwu recently guided Rangers to the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League title following a hard-fought 2-1 win over Ikorodu City in Lagos, securing the club’s ninth league crown and moving them level with Enyimba in the NPFL’s all-time honours list.

The coach, who has now won two league titles in three seasons with Rangers, confirmed that his contract has expired and admitted uncertainty over whether he will continue at the club beyond the current campaign.

According to him, discussions will be held with the club hierarchy after his return from international duty, as he weighs up his next career step following a successful but demanding spell in Enugu.

Rangers’ title success was sealed despite pressure from Rivers United, who finished just one point behind after a 3-0 win on the final day.

Rangers International secured their ninth Nigeria Premier Football League title after battling to a 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Sunday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Flying Antelopes, led by coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, started brightly and broke the deadlock in the 30th minute through Chidiebere Nwobodo.

Nwobodo completed his brace 10 minutes into the second half to hand Rangers firm control of the encounter before Moses Ali reduced the deficit for Ikorodu City in the 58th minute.

Despite late pressure from the hosts, Rangers held on to secure all three points and confirm their place as NPFL champions with 68 points from 38 matches.

Rivers United finished the season in second position after a dominant 3-0 victory against Katsina United in Port Harcourt.

Chijioke Mbaoma netted twice for Rivers United, while Aniekeme Okon added the third goal to complete an impressive performance for the Port Harcourt side.

Shooting Stars Sports Club claimed third place and a CAF Confederation Cup ticket despite suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Niger Tornadoes in Minna.

Abdulrasheed Shehu Dabai converted from the penalty spot four minutes before halftime to hand Tornadoes a crucial victory.

Elsewhere, Enyimba FC preserved their top-flight status with a convincing 3-0 home win over El-Kanemi Warriors.

Stanley Dimgba scored twice for the People’s Elephant before Uwana Asuquo added a late third goal. The defeat confirmed El-Kanemi Warriors’ relegation to the Nigeria National League.

Plateau United edged Kano Pillars 1-0 in Jos, with Victor Dawa scoring the winner deep into stoppage time.

At the Samson Siasia Stadium, Bayelsa United recorded the biggest victory of the final day after thrashing Kwara United 4-0.

Peter Ebimobiwei, Saro Loveday, Stephen Wisdom, and Nneoyi Ofem all found the net for the hosts.

In Kano, Barau FC defeated Nasarawa United 3-0 courtesy of goals from Joseph Atule, Sunday Anthony, and Adamu Hussein.

Final Matchday Results

Niger Tornadoes 1-0 Shooting Stars

Enyimba 3-0 El-Kanemi Warriors

Bayelsa United 4-0 Kwara United

Bendel Insurance 1-1 Remo Stars

Ikorodu City 1-2 Rangers

Rivers United 3-0 Katsina United

Warri Wolves 2-1 Abia Warriors

Plateau United 1-0 Kano Pillars

Barau FC 3-0 Nasarawa United

The Nigeria Football Federation Refereeing Development Committee has suspended referee Yakubu Adamu indefinitely from all league and football-related activities following his performance in the Nigeria Premier Football League clash between Rangers International F.C. and Bendel Insurance F.C., NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

According to the committee, the sanction takes immediate effect after the referee awarded a penalty during the match, which was considered inconsistent with the provisions of the Laws of the Game.

The controversial decision resulted in a goal and was said to have significantly influenced the outcome of the encounter.

The committee further stated that the referee’s actions brought the game into disrepute, leading to the disciplinary action against the match official.

The NFF also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining professionalism, fairness, and integrity in football officiating across the country.

Technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu has expressed confidence in Rangers International F.C.’s ability to challenge for the Nigeria Premier Football League title, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Flying Antelopes currently sit second on the table, just one point behind leaders Rivers United F.C., with eight matches remaining in the season.

Rangers have the chance to go top with a victory over El-Kanemi Warriors F.C. at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, while Rivers United will face Nasarawa United F.C. in Lafia.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Ilechukwu insisted his side are not under pressure and will approach the title race one game at a time.

“There is no different message, we don’t want to be under pressure because of the league. We take it one game after the other,” he said.

The coach added that his players possess the mentality and quality required to go all the way.

“They understand what it takes to win. They have the attitude, the capacity, the character, and they understand what we want. To me, we are always ready.”

Despite backing his team, Ilechukwu acknowledged the strength of Rivers United, maintaining that the title race remains wide open as the season enters its decisive stage.

“They are the strongest team, but you never can tell what will happen. We are also strong. In the remaining games, we will fight more and stay at the top of our game but without pressure,” he added.

Rivers United closed out the NPFL season on a high, finishing the year top of the league table after a narrow home victory over Rangers International, while Kano Pillars boosted their survival hopes with a commanding win that lifted them out of the relegation zone in their match day 19 fixtures, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

At the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Boluwaji Sholumade’s second-half strike proved decisive as Rivers United edged Rangers 1–0. The forward found the breakthrough in the 53rd minute, a result that ensured Rivers United maintained their grip on first place heading into the new year.

Kano Pillars delivered one of the standout performances of the day, sweeping aside Nasarawa United 3–0. Mustapha Umar opened the scoring in the 23rd minute before second-half goals from Chiedozie Okorie (68’) and Jibrin Mustapha (72’) sealed a comprehensive victory that saw Pillars climb out of the relegation places.

In Ozoro, Warri Wolves and Wikki Tourists played out an entertaining 2–2 draw. Imamu Bala put Wikki ahead in the 37th minute before Ezekiel Oroh equalised early in the second half. Wolves briefly turned the game around through Seth Mayi on 56 minutes, but Bala struck again in the 76th minute to earn Wikki a share of the points.

Niger Tornadoes claimed a 2–0 victory over Barau FC, with Abdulaziz Dalhatu opening the scoring in the 35th minute. The points were sealed deep into stoppage time when Rickson Mendos added a second to cap a solid home display.

Katsina United earned a 1–0 away win at Kun Khalifat thanks to Richard Christopher’s 39th-minute strike.

El-Kanemi Warriors snatched a narrow 1–0 victory at Bayelsa United, with Sadiq Mohammed scoring just before halftime.

Ikorodu City beat reigning champions, Remo Stars 1–0 as Odinaka Alfred unleashed a spectacular long-range effort in the 40th minute, firing past goalkeeper Alladoum.

Uche Dozie

Matchday 18 of the Nigeria Premier Football League delivered a blend of late drama, tight contests and statement victories as clubs battled for crucial points at both ends of the table, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

At Ilorin, Kwara United produced a solid second-half performance to secure a 2–0 win over Bayelsa United. Babatunde Bright broke the deadlock in the 54th minute before Ini Emmanuel sealed the victory 17 minutes later, strengthening the Harmony Boys’ home form.

There was nothing to separate Wikki Tourists and Kun Khalifat FC, who played out a goalless draw, with both sides cancelling each other out in a closely fought encounter.

In Enugu, Rangers International edged Ikorodu City FC 2–1 in a keenly contested match, maintaining their push for a strong finish in the second half of the season.

Godwin Obaje put the Flying Antelopes in front in the 35th minute before Chidiebere Nwobodo doubled the lead in the 76th minute

Rasheed Owolabi pulled one back for City at added time of the second half as the tie ended 2-1 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.

At the Lekan Salami Stadium, Shooting Stars (3SC) came from behind to defeat Niger Tornadoes 2–1.

Gbolagade Adelowo equalised from the penalty spot just before half-time, while Promise Awosanmi struck the winner in the 66th minute.

Tornadoes thought they had rescued a point when Kufre Ebong scored in added time, but the goal proved only a late consolation.

Kano Pillars thrilled their home fans with a 2–1 victory over Plateau United. After Wisdom Ndon had put the visitors ahead early, Mustapha Jibrin levelled on the stroke of half-time before captain Ahmed Musa completed the turnaround shortly after the restart.

One of the standout games of the weekend took place in Maiduguri, where El-Kanemi Warriors claimed a dramatic 3–2 win over Enyimba FC.

Daddy Abdulrahman opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 28th minute before Jonas Emmanuel doubled the hosts' lead on 36 minutes.

Mohammed Hussaini reduced the deficit for Enyimba on 43 minutes to give the People's Elephant a lifeline ahead of the second half.

However, Emmanuel increased the deficit with his second goal of the game on 54 minutes. Onyebuchi Nwaorisa, in the 76th minute, pulled one back, but it only proved a consolation for the visitors.

Late drama also unfolded in Umuahia as Abia Warriors snatched a 1–0 victory over Wolves FC. Sunday Megwo converted a penalty deep into stoppage time (90+6’) to hand the hosts all three points in the dying moments of the game.

Uche Dozie 

Matchday 15 of the Nigeria Premier Football League produced major shifts across the table, with newly promoted Kun Khalifat climbing out of the bottom four and Ikorodu City rising to the summit after a hard-fought home victory. Enyimba also claimed bragging rights in the Oriental Derby against Rangers International, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Kun Khalifat 2–0 Plateau United

Kun Khalifat secured a vital home win to boost their survival hopes, defeating Plateau United 2–0.

Lekan Gabriel opened the scoring in the 47th minute, before Henry Ezeonye converted a 70th-minute penalty to seal the victory.

Ikorodu City 1–0 Abia Warriors

Ikorodu City moved to the top of the NPFL standings following a 1–0 triumph over Abia Warriors.

Chidera Oparaocha struck in the 69th minute to earn all three points for the Lagos club.

Enyimba 2–1 Rangers International

Enyimba claimed victory in the Oriental Derby, edging Rangers 2–1 in Aba.

Goals from Chidera Michael (42’) and Stanley Dimgba (81’) put the hosts in control, before Kenechukwu Agu pulled one back for Rangers deep into stoppage time.

Other Results

Barau FC 3–2 Kwara United

Barau edged a five-goal thriller, with strikes from Usman Maidubji (19’), Muhammad Umar (43’), and Stanley Oganbor (90’).

Kwara United responded through Chibuzor Eze Ogbodo (40’) and Aule Johnmark(49’), but it was not enough to deny the hosts.

Warri Wolves 1–0 Nasarawa United

Warri Wolves earned a narrow win thanks to an early 5th-minute goal from Othuke Egbo.

Bayelsa United 1–1 Katsina United

Bayelsa United were held to a draw at home, with Ifeanyi Ogba converting a 7th-minute penalty, before Azeez Falolu equalised for Katsina United in the 36th minute.

Matchday 15 concludes with significant movement at both ends of the table, setting up an intriguing run-in as the season approaches its midpoint.

Uche Dozie

Multiple-time champions of the Nigeria Premier Football League, Enyimba, continued their downward slope following another loss to Plateau United, as Kwara United earned a point in Enugu against Rangers International, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

It was another bad day in the office for Enyimba as they lost to Plateau United by two goals to one at the New Jos Stadium.

A keenly contested affair in the first half saw the tie remain goalless until Monday Gideon opened the score for the hosts in the 50th minute.

Jonathan Jacob restored parity for Enyimba in the 68th minute. Still, a second goal by Jacob on 76 minutes sealed the win for the Peace Boys and handed Enyimba their third consecutive defeat.

Kwara United held Rangers International to a goalless draw at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu.

Goals from Igbunu Evwierhurhoma in the 14th and 90+4 minutes gave Warri Wolves a vital win at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, to go fourth on the log.

Emeka Obioma's 16-minute strike and  Sunday Megwo's goal on 62 minutes gave Abia Warriors a 2-0 win over Barau FC.

Wikki Tourist ended Shooting Stars Sports Club's five-match unbeaten streak after a 2-0 win in Bauchi. Abdullahi Usman on 31 minutes and Jonathan Mairiga on 42 minutes sealed that deal.

Uche Dozie

Daniel Onyia has joined Spanish side Bergantiños CF on a free transfer from Nigeria Premier Football League side Rangers International, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

https://twitter.com/Rangers_Intl/status/1967932733218492926?t=4bkBXcxoxatQzTSVys8A8w&s=19

The Enugu based club announced the transfer of the player via its social media pages on Tuesday.

"Rangers International FC wishes to announce that Daniel Onyia has completed a move to Spanish side Bergantiños CF on a free transfer."

Based on the agreement, the 2024 NPFL champions FC will retain 50% of any future sale of the player.

Uche Dozie

Nine-time champions Enyimba FC have moved to the top of the Nigeria Premier Football League following their win against Bayelsa while there were first wins for Ikorodu City, Kano Pillars, Plateau United and Kun Khalifat FC after match day 4 on Sunday, Nigeriasiccernet.com reports.

The People's Elephant defeated Bayelsa United 0-2 at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenegao to record their second win and first win away of the season.

Chidera Michael put the People's Elephant ahead on 76 minutes before Kalu Nweke doubled the lead on 85 minutes to ensure victory.

Ikorodu City beat new boys Barau FC 2-0 courtesy of a Joseph Arumala header on 59 minutes and Ayomide Cole's goal just 6 minutes to regulation time to win in Lagos.

Kano Pillars piped Rangers International 1-0 courtesy of a goal by Super Eagles winger, Ahmed Musa on 65 minutes as Sai Masu Gida side earned their first win of the season.

A brace from Ebuka Nwokorie on 34’ and 56 minutes and Onuorah Onyedika's 48 minutes goals cancelled Ebuka Okoro's goal on 47 minutes to give Kun Khalifat FC the win over El-Kanemi Warriors.

Garba Mohammed 37 minutes goal gave Nasarawa United a win over Wikki Tourist.

Rivers United sunk Shooting Stars Sports Club further below with a 1-0 win courtesy of 72 minutes strike by Ubong Friday.

Abia Warriors defeated Katsina United 1-0 after Somiari Alalibo scored a fine goal on 51 minutes which was enough to seal victory.

Warri Wolves and Kwara United settled for the share of the spoils with a goalless at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.

Uche Dozie

Reigning champions, Remo Stars, have gone top of the league, Rangers International and Kwara United recorded their win, as Plateau United continue to struggle, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports

The Sky Blue Stars ended the unbeaten run of Nigeria National League champions Warri Wolves after a 1-0 win at the MKO Abiola Sport Arena, Abeokuta, following Samson Olasupo's 77-minute goal.

Remo Stars now have seven points after three matches played and go top of the log with better goal difference than Wikki Tourist.

It was another unbeaten streak that ended as Niger Tornadoes defeated Bayelsa United 1-0 courtesy of Ismail Sarki's goal in 27 minutes of the game played at the Bako Kontagora Stadium, Minna.

Wikki Tourist remained unbeaten and stayed top of the log with a slim win over Abia Warriors courtesy of a goal by  Jonathan Mairiga in 77 minutes.

Rangers International recorded their first win of the season after beating struggling Plateau United 2-0 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.

Goals from Chidozie Iwundu on 45 minutes and Chidiebere Nwobodo on 80 minutes were enough to give the Flying Antelopes the win, leaving the Peace Boys winless since the start of the league.

Kwara United also celebrated their first win after defeating new boys, Kun Khalifat FC 2-0 at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl, George Inih Stadium, Ilorin.

Goals from Johnmark Shirsha on 24 minutes and Emeka Kingsley Obiorah on 81 minutes ensured maximum points for the Harmony Boys.

Multiple champions, Enyimba FC, played a disappointing goalless draw against Nasarawa United at home, while former champions, Rivers United and El Kanemi Warriors, encountered in Maiduguri ended goalless.

The topsy-turvy run of Shooting Stars Sports Club continued as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Ikorodu City at home in the South West derby clash on Sunday.

Sodiq Ibrahim found the net in the 9th minute to give the Oluyole Warriors an early lead, but they were pegged back after Shola Adelani, with a timely touch to bring the Oga Boys level at the stroke of half-time.

Uche Dozie

Chidiebere Nwobodo has rejoined Enugu Rangers ahead of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) campaign following a brief spell in Rwanda, reports NigeriaSoccernet.com.

The seasoned midfielder, who previously played for the Flying Antelopes during the 2023/24 season, has signed a two-year contract with Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu’s team.

Nwobodo makes his comeback from Rwandan champions APR FC, bringing valuable experience and leadership back to the Rangers’ midfield setup.

Before his overseas move, he amassed 102 league appearances and found the net 16 times. Notably, he was an integral part of the Rangers side that won the NPFL title two seasons ago.

Oluwayemi Omolagba

The Borno army piped Sunshine 1-0 to scale through and condemned the Akure Gunners to the Nigeria National League in Maiduguri.

Barnabas Daniel scored for El-kanemi Warriors at the 27th minute against Sunshine Stars FC for the win.

Heartland FC defeated fellow relegation bound team Akwa United, but it was not enough to see the Nazi Millionaires out of the relegation waters at the end of the day.

Isaac Nassy scored in 22 minutes while Daniel Ekpo, on 76 minutes, doubled the lead for Heartland before Chisom Orji pulled one back for Akwa United on 83 minutes.

Mubarak Said's goal on 34 minutes was all Katsina United needed to get a crucial win against Kwara United and stay afloat, 2 points away from the drop zone

In Aba, Enyimba FC fell to their first home loss this season against Plateau United courtesy of a 40th-minute goal from Abdullahi Yusuf.

It was goals galore in Ibadan as Shooting Stars Sports Club thrashed former champions, Rangers International 5-1 at the Lekan Salami Stadium.

A brace from Sodiq Ibrahim and goal each by Gbolagade Adelowo, Alex Aghahowa and Joshua Akpan made the only by the visitors through Bashir Usman a consolation.

It was a fight to finish in Lagos and Kaduna after a 5-goal thriller saw Ikorodu City pip Abia Warriors 3-2 while Niger Tornadoes edge Kano Pillars with the same scoreline.

Ayomide Cole on 37’ minutes, Tosin Oyedokun on 58 minutes and Musa Malik on 65 minutes gave Ikorodu City the three goals while Sunday Megwo's additional time goal in the first half and  a goal from Paul Samson on 75 minutes were the two goals from the visitors.

Rabiu Ali's early goal in the 4th minute for the visitors was cancelled by Godstime Joseph's goal from the spot three minutes later, bringing the first half to a 1-all scoreline.

Ismail Sarki gave the hosts the lead for the first time in the game on 66 minutes before Kufre Ebong doubled the lead on 84 minutes.

Naziru Auwali Ibrahim reduced the deficit on 87 minutes, but there was no comeback as the hosts saw off the game to take all points at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium.

Uche Dozie

Rangers International defender Effimi Nsi has expressed strong confidence ahead of their crucial 2025 President’s Federation Cup semi-final clash against Kwara United, set for Wednesday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, NigeriaSoccernet.com can report.

The in-form centre-back, who has been instrumental for the Enugu side since arriving at the start of the season, declared the 'Flying Antelopes' are fully prepared and focused on reaching the final.

“We are ready to face any club in the Federation Cup. We don’t fear any team but respect all,” said Nsi. “I assure our supporters we have what it takes to overcome Kwara United on Wednesday and reach the final. We are in Lagos for business, not a joke.”

Rangers, six-time winners of the Federation Cup, are riding high after a hard-fought 1-0 quarter-final victory over Plateau United in Abuja earlier this month. Under the guidance of coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, the team is looking to rekindle the spirit of the 'Asaba Miracle' of 2018, where they famously came back from 3-0 down to defeat Kano Pillars on penalties and lift the trophy.

With the stakes high and history beckoning, Rangers will be aiming to book a spot in the final and inch closer to ending their seven-year wait for another cup triumph.

Kwara United, Ikorodu City, and Rangers International have all booked their places in the semi-final of the President's Federation Cup following wins in their quarter-final matches, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Kwara United came from behind to go into penalties and beat Akwa United 5-3 after 2-2 at regulation time and the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

Endurance Ebedebiri scored from the spot to put the Promise Keepers in front after a foul on Emmanuel Ini inside the box in the 15th minute.

Emmanuel Ini picked up a long ball from the right and calmly beat his marker before sending a left-footed curling shot into the top-right corner of the net to double the lead on 24 minutes.

However, Alalade Wasiu started the comeback for the Harmony Boys after reducing the deficit in the 35th minute before Junior Aimufua levelled the score at the stroke of half time.

The game progressed to a shootout after the score remained the same at full time, which was won by Kwara United.

Chiedozie Okorie scored in the 30th minute of play as Rangers International beat Plateau United 1-0 at Area 3 Football Pitch, Abuja.

Shola Adelani's goal from the penalty spot after 55 minutes played was all Ikorodu City needed to go past Wikki Tourist at Bwari Township Stadium.

Semi-final pairings

Ikorodu City vs Abakaliki FC

Kwara United vs Rangers International

Uche Dozie