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2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 19: Rivers United Edge Rangers International Amid Controversy

Posted : 30 December 2025

Rivers United FC strengthened their hold on the summit of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after a dramatic 1-0 win over Rangers International at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium on Matchday 19. The only goal of the match came in the 52nd minute when Boluwaji Sholumade powered a header into the net, but the game became the centre of controversy in stoppage time when Rangers appeared to score a legitimate equaliser that was subsequently disallowed.

The hosts dominated possession for much of the first half but struggled to convert chances into goals. Okon Aniekeme tested Rangers’ goalkeeper in the 16th minute, while Maclyn Biokpo’s effort was ruled out for offside shortly afterwards. Play was briefly halted following a clash of heads that required medical attention, slightly disrupting the rhythm of the match. Wasiu Falolu came closest to scoring before halftime with a free-kick that drifted wide.

The breakthrough arrived seven minutes after the restart when Sholumade rose to head the ball home, giving Rivers United the lead. Rangers responded by pushing forward in search of an equaliser, but Rivers’ goalkeeper Ani Ozomena made a superb close-range save in the 58th minute. The home side reinforced their efforts by introducing Timothy Zachariah and Osimaga Duke shortly after the hour mark to maintain control of the game.

In stoppage time, Rangers increased the pressure, with a long throw causing confusion in the Rivers defence. Chidozie Iwundu managed to head the ball into an empty net, but referee Bashir Musa Mouktar controversially disallowed the goal, triggering protests from the Rangers bench. The decision ultimately preserved Rivers United’s 1-0 lead.

With the win, Rivers United remain top of the NPFL standings on 37 points after 19 matches, extending their lead to four points. Eight-time champions Rangers International remain sixth with 29 points at the midway stage of the season.

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