Revenge: Niger Tornadoes Defeat Rangers International in Enugu
In a stunning reversal of fortunes, Niger Tornadoes secured a 2-1 victory over defending champions Rangers International in Enugu, avenging their loss in the first leg and causing a major upset in the opening match of the second stanza of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
It was a match that no one saw coming, especially in the hostile atmosphere of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, where Rangers were expected to bounce back strongly after their 1-0 win over Tornadoes in Minna earlier in the season. However, it was Niger Tornadoes who came out firing, determined to make their presence felt.
The opening goal came in the 17th minute, as Niger Tornadoes’ Sarki I. found the back of the net with a well-placed strike, giving the visitors an early lead. But just four minutes later, Rangers responded with their own equalizer. Ugwueze C. struck a fine effort in the 21st minute, bringing the game to a 1-1 draw as both teams went into halftime level.
The second half proved to be equally thrilling, as both sides battled for control of the match. It was Tornadoes who regained the lead in the 64th minute through Okechukwu I., whose clinical finish put his side back in front. Rangers, despite their best efforts, were unable to break down the determined Tornadoes defense as they searched for an equalizer.
The drama didn’t end there, though. With the game edging towards its final moments, Rangers were handed a golden opportunity to rescue a point from the penalty spot in stoppage time. However, Okorie C., stepping up for the crucial kick, saw his effort sail wide, much to the disbelief of the home fans. It was a painful moment for Rangers, as the miss ensured that Tornadoes walked away from Enugu with all three points.
For Niger Tornadoes, this victory was sweet revenge, having been beaten by Rangers in the first leg of the season. The 2-1 result not only avenged their earlier defeat but also sent shockwaves through the league as they handed the champions their first defeat of the second half of the season. With this win, Niger Tornadoes are showing they are a force to be reckoned with, while Rangers will be left to reflect on missed chances and the harsh reality of their first home defeat of the season.
As the season progresses, this game will certainly go down as one of the most memorable moments in the 2024/2025 NPFL campaign. For Rangers, the search for redemption begins now, but for Niger Tornadoes, it’s a victory they will savor for years to come.
