2026/2027 Euromatch NPFL Match Day 7: Rangers Punish Abia Warriors in Oriental Derby

Posted : 05 October 2026

Rangers International FC made a winning return to their temporary base in Awka, defeating Abia Warriors 3-1 in an entertaining Oriental derby on Matchday Seven of the 2026/2027 Euromatch Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

The Flying Antelopes combined attacking flair with clinical finishing to overcome an Abia Warriors side that created several opportunities but struggled to convert them at crucial moments.

Rangers took the lead in the 37th minute when prolific forward Godwin Obaje finished off a well-worked attacking move to send the home supporters into celebration.

The hosts maintained their advantage into the break, before captain Chidiebere Nwobodo doubled the lead four minutes after the restart.

Nwobodo reacted quickest to a rebound from the Abia Warriors goalkeeper, calmly placing the ball into the net to give Rangers a 2-0 advantage.

The visitors were handed a lifeline in the 53rd minute when Rangers defender Austin Okpara was penalised for handling the ball inside the box.

Obioma Chukwuemeka made no mistake from the spot, sending Rangers goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh the wrong way to reduce the deficit to 2-1.

Abia Warriors were unable to build on the goal, however, and their task became even more difficult when Jibrin Faiz was shown a red card in the 77th minute.

Playing with numerical superiority, Rangers remained in control and eventually put the result beyond doubt deep into stoppage time.

Daniel Akolade struck in the 90+1st minute to complete the 3-1 victory and secure all three points for the Flying Antelopes.

The result provided Rangers with a strong start to their return to Awka, with the team also giving their supporters plenty to celebrate through an impressive attacking display.

Abia Warriors coach Imama Amapakabo rued his side’s inability to take advantage of the chances created during the encounter.

According to the coach, his team created more opportunities but failed to convert them, describing the defeat as largely technical rather than tactical.

Amapakabo, however, remained optimistic about his side’s campaign, stressing that there was still a long way to go in the league.

For Rangers, the victory strengthens their position in the race at the top end of the NPFL table, while Abia Warriors will have to regroup quickly ahead of their next assignment.

2026/2027 Euromatch NPFL Match Day 7: Rangers Punish Abia Warriors in Oriental Derby

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