Rivers United Knock Out Enugu Rangers, Keep Federation Cup Dream Alive

Rivers United gained swift revenge on Rangers International for their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title heartbreak, defeating the champions 3-2 in a thrilling President Federation Cup Round of 32 clash at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

Just over a week after missing out on the league crown by a single point to Rangers on the final day of the season, the Port Harcourt side delivered a statement performance, booking their place in the next round with a dramatic stoppage-time winner.

Rivers United made their intentions clear from the outset. Former league top scorer Chijioke Mbaoma opened the scoring with a well-taken header before Wisdom Samuel doubled the advantage in the 33rd minute, giving Finidi George’s side a comfortable 2-0 lead at half-time.

Rangers responded strongly after the restart. Godwin Obaje pulled one back from the penalty spot on the hour mark, and two minutes later Precious Agu completed the comeback, drawing the champions level and setting up a tense finale.

With extra time looming, Rivers United found the decisive breakthrough. Second-half substitute Handsome Surveyor, who had replaced Ubong Friday, rose highest in stoppage time to head home the winner and send the Pride of Rivers into the next round.

The victory keeps Rivers United’s hopes of silverware alive after their narrow league disappointment, while Rangers see their dream of a domestic double come to an end.

Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu and his players’ attention will now shift to preparations for next season’s CAF Champions League preliminary campaign following their Federation Cup exit.