The 2025/26 v title race will go down to the final day of the season, with just one point separating leaders Enugu Rangers and second-placed Rivers United after a dramatic Matchday 37.
Enugu Rangers kept their destiny firmly in their own hands with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Bendel Insurance at the Cathedral. Veteran striker Godwin Obaje was the hero for the Flying Antelopes, scoring twice to secure all three points. Obaje opened the scoring in the 15th minute, but Alex Oweilayefa equalized for Bendel Insurance in the 41st minute. Rangers, however, reclaimed control in the second half when Obaje calmly converted from the penalty spot in the 65th minute to seal a crucial win.
Rivers United, meanwhile, showed remarkable resilience in Bauchi, coming from behind twice to defeat Wikki Tourists 3-2 and keep their title dreams alive.
Jonathan Mairiga gave Wikki Tourists the lead in the 21st minute before Handsome Surveyor leveled for Rivers United in the 35th minute. Imamu Bala restored Wikki’s advantage just four minutes into the second half, but Rivers United responded brilliantly with two decisive second-half goals to complete the comeback and remain within touching distance of Rangers.
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Heading into Matchday 38, the title equation is clear: Rangers only need a win to be crowned champions, while Rivers United must secure victory and hope Rangers fail to win their final game.
Beyond the title race, the battle for the automatic CAF Confederation Cup spot between Shooting Stars and Ikorodu City will also be settled on the final day.
Shooting Stars strengthened their grip on the continental ticket with a narrow 1-0 home win over Barau, courtesy of Lucky Emmanuel’s 41st-minute strike. The result moved them two points ahead of Ikorodu City, who suffered a crushing 4-1 defeat away to Katsina United.
Despite Shooting Stars’ advantage, the final-day pressure remains intense, with Ikorodu City boosted by a home fixture while Shooting Stars face a potentially difficult away assignment.
Elsewhere on Matchday 37:
- Kun Khalifat secured an impressive 2-0 away win over Abia Warriors
- Remo Stars boosted their survival hopes with a vital 2-1 victory against Bayelsa United, who dropped into the relegation zone
- Kwara United defeated Enyimba 2-0
- Nasarawa United edged Plateau United 1-0
- Kano Pillars claimed a 1-0 win over Warri Wolves
- El Kanemi Warriors and Niger Tornadoes played out a goalless draw
With the title, continental qualification, and relegation battles all still unresolved, Matchday 38 promises a thrilling conclusion to one of the most dramatic NPFL seasons in recent history.
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