Enyimba U19 bowed out of the NPFL U19 group stage despite securing a 1-0 win over Rangers U19 in their last Group B match.
A first-half penalty from striker Nelson Sule gave the Young Elephants all three points, but results in the other game meant they could not qualify.
The game started slowly, with both teams careful not to make mistakes. Enyimba, looking to bounce back after their loss to Lobi Stars, tried to take control early.
Sule almost opened the scoring with a long-range shot from over 30 meters, but it went just wide, showing his threat in attack.
The rough pitch made passing and smooth play difficult, and Rangers, already low on confidence after two defeats, could not create many chances.
The key moment came in the 42nd minute. Peter Daniel broke into the Rangers box, and the goalkeeper brought him down while trying to stop him.
The referee pointed straight to the spot. Sule stepped up calmly and slotted the ball past the keeper for his third goal of the tournament, putting Enyimba 1-0 up before the break.
In the second half, Rangers pushed hard for an equalizer, but Enyimba’s defense stayed solid. Captain Kelechi Mba stood strong at the back, winning key battles, while goalkeeper Eze Mathew was alert to deal with crosses and long balls.
Enyimba looked dangerous on the counter through Sule and Daniel but could not add a second goal. Rangers kept pressing but failed to create a clear chance, and Enyimba held on for the win.
At full time, Enyimba players celebrated, but it was a mixed feeling. The victory put them second in the group with six points, behind Lobi Stars on nine after their win over Rivers United. Rangers finished bottom without a point.
