Rivers United tightened their grip at the top of the Nigeria Professional Football League table with a 1–0 victory over Rangers International in a tense Matchday 19 clash.
The decisive moment arrived in the 52nd minute when Boluwaji Sholumade found the net to give the hosts the lead. Rivers United were later indebted to Ani Ozomena, who produced a superb close-range save in the 58th minute to preserve the advantage.
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Head coach made key adjustments as the game wore on. In the 61st minute, Timothy Zachariah and Osimaga Duke replaced Seyi Oguntayo and Okon Aniekeme. Further changes followed in the 80th minute, with Issac Annor and Emmanuel Nnaji coming on for Effimi Nsi—a former Rangers player—and Wasiu Falolu. Samson Obi later replaced Maclyn Biokpo in the 87th minute as Rivers United looked to see out the contest.
Rangers International thought they had grabbed a dramatic late equaliser from a long throw in the closing moments, but the goal was disallowed by the center referee, who instead awarded a free kick to the hosts—an incident that sparked controversy.
Speaking after the match, Rangers Int’l head coach, Ekenedilichukwu Ekeh, voiced his frustration with the officiating.
“I am not happy from the kickoff till the final whistle, basically on the officiating, and I want the league body to review this game.”
The victory ensures Rivers United finish the first stanza at the summit of the NPFL table, opening up a four-point gap over their closest challengers.
