Rangers International FC have emerged champions of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after battling to a thrilling 2-2 draw against Ikorodu City FC at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Sunday.

The Flying Antelopes finished the season on 68 points, securing a record-equalling ninth league title to draw level with Enyimba FC as the most successful club in NPFL history.

Rangers started the encounter brightly and nearly took an early lead when Kelvin Briggs connected with a long delivery, but his glancing header sailed narrowly over the crossbar.

The opening stages of the match were largely scrappy, with both sides struggling to create meaningful chances as the tension of the title-deciding clash showed.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 31st minute after Ikorodu City lost possession dangerously close to their penalty area. Rangers captain Obinna Nwobodo seized the opportunity, driving forward before calmly slotting past goalkeeper Derrick July to hand the visitors the lead.

Rangers doubled their advantage shortly after the restart. Wisdom Ebirim tested the goalkeeper with a powerful effort, and Nwobodo reacted quickest to the rebound, tapping home from close range to complete his brace.

Ikorodu City responded with renewed urgency and pulled one back through Moses Bada after goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh parried a dangerous cross from captain Folarin Temitope into the striker’s path.

The hosts continued to pile pressure late in the game and eventually found an equaliser, but Rangers held on to secure the crucial point needed to seal the league crown.

The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among Rangers players, officials and travelling supporters, who celebrated a historic triumph in Lagos.

The title marks Rangers’ second league success in three seasons under General Manager Amobi Ezeaku and Technical Adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu, further cementing the club’s return to the summit of Nigerian football.