NPFL slams hammer on Enyimba and Rangers as Enugu’s Flying Antelopes receive huge boost in title race

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has fined Enyimba and Rangers International for breaking rules during their Matchday 35 game, Soccernet.ng reports.

The match, known as the Oriental Derby, occurred at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Sunday but was abandoned after a controversial penalty was given to Enugu Rangers in the final minutes.

The NPFL has decided to award Rangers International three points and three goals. Enyimba FC has been fined 10 million naira for their part in the incident.

Additionally, three Enyimba players, Akanni Elijah, Eze Ekwutoziam, and Chibuke Nwaiwu, will face sanctions after further investigation.

Rangers International will also pay a 5 million naira fine for several offenses, including failing to provide adequate security, allowing fans to invade the pitch, and selling more tickets than the stadium's capacity.

Over 25,000 fans attended the game at Enugu Stadium to watch the Flying Antelopes lock horns with defending league champions, Enyimba.

Both clubs have 48 hours to appeal the decisions.

Following this ruling, Rangers International leads the league with 64 points from 35 matches, while Enyimba FC and Remo Stars are tied for second place with 59 points each.

Meanwhile, Rangers will next travel to Ibadan, where they will trade tackles with title rivals Shooting Stars at the Lekan Salami Stadium on Wednesday. The kick-off time for the historical encounter is 5:30 pm local time.