2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 37 Review: Rangers edge Bendel Insurance to stay on course for league glory

Posted : 11 May 2026

Rangers International FC strengthened their grip at the summit of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) table after battling to a 2-1 victory over Bendel Insurance FC at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

Despite playing behind closed doors, the Flying Antelopes showed urgency from the onset as they chased another crucial win in the title race. The hosts dominated possession and pinned Bendel Insurance deep inside their own half for long spells.

Their early pressure eventually paid off in the 18th minute when experienced forward Godwin Obaje curled a brilliant free kick beyond the reach of the goalkeeper to hand Rangers a deserved lead.

Rangers continued to dictate the tempo afterwards but failed to capitalize on several openings, with poor finishing preventing them from extending their advantage before halftime.

Against the run of play, Bendel Insurance fought back in the 42nd minute through A. Oweilaiyefa, who stunned the home crowd with a superb direct free kick to restore parity at 1-1.

The equalizer briefly shifted momentum in favor of the Benin side, but Rangers returned from the break with renewed determination and greater attacking intensity.

Their persistence paid off midway into the second half after captain Chidiebere Nwobodo was brought down inside the penalty area.

Obaje stepped up confidently and converted from the spot to complete his brace and register his 14th league goal of the campaign.

Bendel Insurance pushed for another equalizer in the closing stages, but Rangers remained compact defensively to secure all three points in a tense contest.

Speaking after the match, Rangers head coach, Fidelis Ilechukwu, admitted that his side did not perform at their best despite the important victory.

"I thank God we won, but it is one of our worst games of the season. It is one of those things that happen in football," he said.

Looking ahead to Rangers’ decisive final league fixture away to Ikorodu City, the tactician acknowledged the challenge awaiting his team.

"It is going to be a difficult game, but we will see how it plays out."

The hard-fought win leaves Rangers International top of the NPFL standings with 64 points heading into the final round of matches, keeping their title ambitions firmly in their own hands.

This victory ensures that Rangers maintain their lead as they prepare for the final hurdle of the season. The team now turns its full focus toward securing the necessary result in their last fixture to seal the championship title.

2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 37 Review: Rangers edge Bendel Insurance to stay on course for league glory

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