Rangers International have taken first place in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after beating Bendel Insurance 1-0 in Wednesday’s rescheduled Matchday Nine fixture, Bold sports reports.
Chidozie Iwundu scored the only goal of the encounter at the Awka City Stadium. His second-half strike secured Rangers’ sixth league victory this season.
Iwundu settles closely contested encounter
The two teams entered the break without scoring. Both sides created opportunities during the opening half but failed to find a breakthrough.
However, Rangers needed only two minutes after the restart to change the scoreline. Iwundu found the net to put the defending champions ahead.
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That goal proved decisive as the hosts held on to their advantage. Bendel Insurance could not find an equaliser before the final whistle.
Rangers take advantage in title race
The three points move Fidelis Ilechukwu’s side to 21 points from 10 matches. Rangers now occupy the top position in the league standings.
The defending champions have recorded six victories in their campaign so far. Their latest result also takes them above their rivals in the race for the NPFL title.
Bendel Insurance, meanwhile, have slipped to fourth place. They have collected 18 points from 11 matches following Wednesday’s defeat.
Both clubs prepare for Sunday fixtures
Rangers will attempt to build on their latest result when they face Kwara United on Sunday. The defending champions will host the encounter as part of their Matchday 12 fixtures.
Bendel Insurance will also enjoy home advantage in their next outing. They are scheduled to welcome Niger Tornadoes to the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
The two fixtures will provide both sides with another opportunity to improve their positions in the NPFL standings.
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