Rivers United Seal Thrilling Victory Over Rangers International in Uyo
Rivers United reached the next round of the President Federation Cup after beating Rangers International 3-2 in a thrilling match played in Uyo on Monday.
The Port Harcourt club made a bright start and took the lead after just five minutes. Chijioke Mbaoma finished well to put Rivers United ahead.
Rivers United continued to control the game and scored a second goal in the 34th minute. Wisdom Samuel cut inside and fired a low shot into the bottom corner to give his side a 2-0 lead at half-time.
Rangers International came out stronger in the second half and almost gifted Rivers a third goal in the 50th minute. A poor back pass from Monday Daniel fell to Mbaoma, but goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh reacted quickly to make the save.
The NPFL champions pulled one back on the hour mark after winning a penalty. Godwin Obaje stepped up and scored with a powerful strike to make it 2-1.
Rangers International completed their comeback in the 71st minute when Precious Agu reacted fastest inside the box and scored from close range to level the match at 2-2.
With extra time looking likely, Rivers United grabbed a dramatic winner deep into stoppage time. The goal led to protests from Rangers International players, who believed their goalkeeper had been fouled in the build-up.
After speaking with his officials, the referee allowed the goal to stand, giving Rivers United a 3-2 lead.
Despite the complaints from Rangers International, Rivers United held on to secure victory and knock the NPFL champions out of the competition.
The win sends Rivers United into the Round of 16 of the President Federation Cup, while Rangers International bow out after fighting back from two goals down.
