The highly anticipated Week 35 ‘Oriental Derby’ in the NPFL, which could have decided the championship between Enugu Rangers and visiting Enyimba, was abandoned tonight following chaotic scenes at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu.
The match, attended by a capacity crowd, was locked in a goalless stalemate when a late penalty was awarded to the home team, Enugu Rangers. This contentious decision, arising from what seemed like an Enyimba defender pulling back a Rangers striker inside the box, led to Enyimba walking off the pitch in protest.
The situation escalated quickly as fans stormed the field, forcing the officials to abandon the game. The penalty call has sparked a debate, with opinions divided on whether the decision was justified.
A win for Rangers would have put them five points clear of Enyimba, with just two matches remaining in the season, significantly boosting their title hopes.
In other NPFL action, Remo Stars’ championship aspirations took a significant hit earlier in the day when they were defeated 3-2 by Lobi Stars, ending their unbeaten run. Abia Warriors and Bendel Insurance settled for a goalless draw in Umuahia, while Sunshine Stars defeated relegation-threatened Akwa United 2-0.
Shooting Stars suffered a setback in their title chase, losing to a single goal from Nyima Nwagua for Rivers United. Bayelsa United and Sporting Lagos played to a thrilling 2-2 draw, with John Bassey’s brace equalizing Jonathan Alukwu’s double.
Heartland kept their survival hopes alive with a 3-1 victory over Doma United. On Friday, Kano Pillars and Niger Tornadoes drew 1-1, Kwara United were defeated by Plateau United, and relegated Gombe United were comprehensively beaten 4-1 by Katsina United.
