2026/2027 EuroMatch NPFL Match Day 12: Rangers Survive Controversial Late Scare to Edge Kwara United in Awka

Posted : 09 November 2026

Kwara United were left frustrated after a controversial late decision denied them a potential equaliser in their 1-0 defeat to NPFL leaders Rangers International in Sunday's Matchday 12 encounter at the Awka City Stadium.

Victor Chiemezie's 39th-minute strike proved decisive for the Flying Antelopes, who secured maximum points despite coming under sustained pressure from the Harmony Boys in the second half.

Kwara United had threatened first in the 25th minute when Benjamin Jack connected with a pass from Alex Jerry following an impressive midfield break.

However, Rangers goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh produced an excellent save to preserve parity.

The hosts gradually gained control before breaking the deadlock six minutes before halftime.

Chiemezie capitalised on a defensive lapse after receiving a long pass that exposed Kwara United's right flank before firing past goalkeeper Suraj Ayeleso.

Rangers carried their slender advantage into the interval, leaving the visitors with work to do after the restart.

Kwara United Technical Adviser Ashifat Sulyman responded by introducing Solomon Shoola and Goodluck Ogbolu to strengthen his attacking options.

The changes improved the visitors' forward play as they pressed relentlessly for an equaliser, forcing Rangers to defend their advantage.

Their persistence appeared to have paid off in the 78th minute when Alex Jerry beat Jimoh in a one-on-one situation to send the ball into the net.

Jerry had received a throw-in from Peace Dewan before converting what appeared to be a legitimate scoring opportunity.

However, the celebrations were abruptly halted after the assistant referee raised his flag, and the goal was subsequently disallowed.

The decision generated controversy because the centre referee had allowed the throw-in to proceed despite the assistant referee's signal.

The sequence developed into a clear goal-scoring opportunity, with Jerry completing the move before the intervention denied Kwara United what could have been a valuable point.

Despite the disappointment, Sulyman praised his players for their competitive display against the league leaders, expressing confidence in their ability to recover.

He assured supporters that the technical crew would continue working to address the team's shortcomings as the campaign progresses.

Kwara United will now return to Ilorin to host Rivers United in their Matchday 13 fixture next Sunday, hoping to turn their improved performance into victory before their home supporters.

2026/2027 EuroMatch NPFL Match Day 12: Rangers Survive Controversial Late Scare to Edge Kwara United in Awka

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