The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match between Rangers International and Enyimba FC was abandoned following a controversial penalty decision late in the game. The match, dubbed the Oriental Derby and played on Sunday, was tied 0-0 when the referee awarded Rangers a penalty in added time, sparking protests from Enyimba players and chaos among the fans.
“Match interrupted after penalty awarded to Rangers in added time,” the NPFL stated on their X platform. Eyewitness accounts and video footage revealed that the decision led to fans invading the pitch, making it impossible to resume play.
Rangers, leading the NPFL standings with 60 points, and Enyimba, trailing by two points, were both vying for crucial points in this title-deciding match. Efforts to calm the situation and continue the game proved futile as the disturbance escalated.
The league body has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident or the potential repercussions for either team .
