The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League season is heading for a dramatic finish as Rangers International and Rivers United both secured key wins to keep the title race wide open.
Rangers maintained their position at the top of the table with 62 points after a composed away victory over Bayelsa United in Yenagoa. Goals from Chidiebere Nwobodo and Godwin Obaje ensured maximum points, while Bayelsa’s defeat leaves them rooted to the bottom with 40 points.
Rivers United remain firmly in contention after a dominant 3-0 win against Abia Warriors in Port Harcourt. After a quiet opening half, the hosts found their rhythm through goals from Wasiu Falolu, Timothy Zachariah and Bello Babatunde to move to 61 points, just one behind Rangers.
Shooting Stars SC strengthened their push for continental qualification with a hard fought 3-2 win over Nasarawa United in Ibadan. Lucky Emmanuel gave the hosts an early advantage with two goals, but Nasarawa fought back before Qamar Adegoke sealed victory late on. Shooting Stars sit third on 57 points.
At the bottom of the table, the relegation battle remains intense. Barau FC boosted their survival hopes with a 3-0 win over El-Kanemi Warriors, while Enyimba FC edged Remo Stars, leaving the visitors in serious danger.
Kun Khalifat FC kept their survival hopes alive with a late victory over Kano Pillars, thanks to a stoppage time goal from Oghenetega Ebetomame.
Elsewhere, Warri Wolves claimed a narrow win against Plateau United, while Kwara United picked up a valuable away draw at Niger Tornadoes.
The fixture between Bendel Insurance and Katsina United was suspended due to a waterlogged pitch and will resume with the score at 0-0.
With two rounds remaining, the margins are tight across the table. Teams from mid table downwards remain at risk, with just a few points separating safety from relegation. The title race is equally tense, with Rangers and Rivers United separated by a single point heading into the final stretch.
