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2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 5: Enugu Rangers claim Oriental Derby victory over Abia Warriors

Posted : 07 October 2024

A delightful freekick from Kazeem Ogunleye in the 59th minute of play earned league champions, Enugu Rangers International Football Club, all three points in the Matchday 5 encounter of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League, played at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.


The Oriental derby lived up to its billing, providing spectators with value for their money.


Abia Warriors' gaffer, Coach Imama Amapakabo, stuck with the team that defeated Kano Pillars in Matchday 4, and his wards would have had a share of the spoils, but they were undone by Kazeem Ogunleye's second-half freekick.


It was a cagey affair at the beginning of proceedings, as the first half ended goalless.


The introduction of Nenrot Silas at the beginning of the second half by Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu swung play in favor of the home side, as the pacy playmaker orchestrated the defending champion's attack.


It was all Rangers at the beginning of the second half, and the pressure eventually paid off when they were awarded a freekick in front of Abia Warriors' 18-yard box, a minute to the hour mark. Ogunleye struck it exquisitely to send the home supporters into wild jubilation.


The goal prompted Umu Chineke to go in search of the equalizer, which they would have earned in the 73rd minute of play.


A corner kick for Abia Warriors was swiftly delivered into the home side's box by substitute Daniel Ekpo, and the ball dropped into the path of Paul Sampson. However, his shot was parried by the keeper, and the loose ball was cleared by the home side's defense, much to the relief of the home supporters. It was a nervy moment for the reigning champions at that time.


Abia Warriors sustained their attack, but Rangers defended stoutly to ensure that the visitors suffered their first away league defeat of the season.


Up next for Abia Warriors is a home tie against Kwara United Football Club of Ilorin, at the Umuahia Township Stadium.

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