(VIDEO) Fans storm pitch after Rangers awarded last-minute penalty against Enyimba in NPFL week 35
In a dramatic turn of events during Week 35 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), fans stormed the pitch after a last-minute penalty was awarded to Rangers in their crucial clash against Enyimba. The high-stakes Oriental Derby, held on Sunday, was set to be a title decider with Rangers leading the league at 60 points, just ahead of Enyimba with 58 points.
The match was fiercely contested and remained goalless until the 101st minute when the referee’s decision to award Rangers a penalty ignited chaos. Enyimba players protested vehemently, and the tension spilled over as fans invaded the pitch, forcing an abrupt halt to the game.
The controversial penalty has split opinions among fans and analysts. Some argue that the call was justified as the Enyimba defender appeared to pull back the Rangers striker inside the box. Others, however, believe the decision was unfair and marred the integrity of the match.
A victory for Rangers would have significantly boosted their title hopes, extending their lead over Enyimba to five points with only two matches left in the season. The NPFL’s official X platform commented on the incident, stating: “Rangers 0-0 Enyimba #RANENY #NPFL24 #TheFinalStretch. The match was interrupted after a penalty awarded to Rangers in added time.”
The league body has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident or outline the next steps. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting further developments in this dramatic turn of events in the NPFL season.
Watch the video below
