Enugu Rangers, the seven-time champions of Nigeria, are on the verge of securing their eighth Nigeria Premier Football League title. This can happen if they emerge victorious against Bendel Insurance in their match on match-day 37 in Enugu. Additionally, for this to occur, their rivals Remo Stars and Enyimba must also suffer defeats in their respective matches, as reported by PUNCH Sports Extra.
Rangers are currently leading the pack, with a two-point advantage over Remo and Enyimba, having accumulated 64 points from 36 games.
In the upcoming clash against Insurance, Rangers aim to maintain their lead in the title race. Simultaneously, Remo Stars will be facing Sunshine Stars in a challenging Southwest Derby in Akure, while Enyimba will be battling relegation-threatened Sporting Lagos in Lagos.
A victory for Rangers on Sunday would secure them a comfortable five-point lead over Remo and Enyimba, who are currently at 62 points each. However, for this scenario to unfold, both Remo and Enyimba must falter in their matches.
Despite downplaying their title chances, Rangers’ coach, Fidelis Ilechukwu, acknowledges the significance of a win in positioning the team as frontrunners for the league triumph.
Expressing his perspective, Ilechukwu stated, “Rangers are not feeling pressured to secure the title. We aimed for at least a point in our recent match against 3SC, and a win at home this Sunday would put us in a strong position for the title.”
Ilechukwu also admitted that the competition from Remo and Enyimba poses a challenge, and the resolve of all three teams will be tested in the upcoming matches in Lagos and Akure.
Following a setback against Bayelsa United, Enyimba is striving to keep their 10th title hopes alive as they face Sporting Lagos, who are fighting to avoid relegation.
Similarly, Remo Stars encounter a crucial match against Sunshine Stars, who require additional points to secure their spot in the league. Moreover, it is an important home game for Sunshine, fueling high expectations from their supporters.
Kennedy Boboye, the head coach of Sunshine, emphasized the significance of the last home game for the club this season, urging fans to rally behind the team for a victory.
Various scenarios could unfold in the upcoming fixtures, potentially determining whether the title race will extend to the final day. If Rangers defeat Insurance and both Remo and Enyimba secure a point each, Rangers will have a three-point advantage going into the last day. However, if Rangers stumble and Remo or Enyimba emerge victorious, the title race could witness a dramatic turn.