In a clash that lived up to its heavyweight billing, league leaders Rivers United showcased the defensive resilience of champions, grinding out a hard-fought 0–0 draw against a relentless Rangers International at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Wednesday.
The Matchday 20 encounter, often referred to as a “Oriental Derby” of sorts given the regional proximity and historical stakes, saw the “Flying Antelopes” attempt to dismantle the league’s most porous-proof defense. However, despite the deafening support from the Enugu faithful, Finidi George’s men stood firm to preserve their four-point cushion at the summit of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The opening exchanges belonged to the visitors. Rivers United, high on confidence after finishing the first half of the season as winter champions, dominated the early tempo. Their tactical discipline forced Rangers into early defensive clearances, with the “Pride of Rivers” lookng the more likely to break the deadlock.
However, the tide turned midway through the first half. Rangers, led by stand-in coach Kene Ekenedilichukwu, found their rhythm. Chimobi Iwilo came agonizingly close to scoring, but his goal-bound effort was spectacularly parried by Rivers’ shot-stopper, Osagie Onisodumeya, who was in inspired form.
The second half saw a more desperate Rangers side pressing for a winner. The highlight of the evening came from Maclyn Biokpo, whose audacious chip from just beyond the center circle nearly caught the visitors off guard, clipping the woodwork as the stadium held its collective breath.
Rivers United’s manager, Finidi George, responded with a series of tactical shifts to stem the bleeding. Speaking after the game, Finidi noted:
“In the second half, they had more possession, but after our changes, we came back strong. For us, it was a good game and a positive outing.”
The closing minutes were a frantic end-to-end affair. Rangers were handed a golden opportunity late in the game when Evans Iyiebi stood over a free-kick on the edge of the box, but his effort flashed narrowly wide, leaving the home fans in anguish.
The result leaves the NPFL table largely unchanged at the very top, though Rivers United will feel they are the true winners of the stalemate.
Team Points Status
Rivers United 38 1st Place (4-point lead)
Abia Warriors 34 2nd Place
Rangers Int’l 30 6th Place
While the scoreboard remained vacant, the match was a masterclass in tactical discipline. For Rangers, it was a case of “what could have been,” as poor finishing once again cost them three points at home. For Rivers United, the point in Enugu is another brick in the wall of their title charge, proving that they can suffer and survive in the league’s most hostile territories.
As the NPFL enters the business end of the season, this stalemate might just be the result that keeps the momentum in Port Harcourt.
