Rivers United booked their place in the next round of the President Federation Cup after edging Nigeria Premier Football League champions Enugu Rangers 3-2 in a dramatic and controversial encounter in Uyo on Monday.
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The Port Harcourt-based side made a flying start and took the lead just five minutes into the contest through Chijioke Mbaoma, who finished brilliantly to put Rivers United ahead.
Rivers continued to dominate proceedings and doubled their advantage in the 34th minute when Wisdom Samuel cut inside before firing a low effort into the bottom corner, giving his side a comfortable 2-0 lead at halftime.
Enugu Rangers returned from the break with renewed determination and nearly gifted Rivers a third goal in the 50th minute after Monday Daniel’s poor headed back pass. However, goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh reacted quickly to deny Mbaoma from close range.
The NPFL champions eventually found a way back into the match on the hour mark when they were awarded a penalty following an infringement inside the box.
Experienced striker Godwin Obaje stepped up and blasted his effort into the roof of the net to reduce the deficit.
Rangers completed their comeback in the 71st minute as Precious Agu reacted quickest inside the penalty area to slot home from close range and level the score at 2-2.
With the match seemingly heading for extra time, late drama unfolded in stoppage time. Rivers United found the back of the net in a chaotic sequence that sparked furious protests from Rangers players, who claimed there had been an infringement on their goalkeeper during the build-up.
After consultations, the referee allowed the goal to stand, handing Rivers United a decisive 3-2 lead in the closing moments of the game.
Despite Rangers’ protests, Rivers United held on through the remaining minutes to secure a memorable victory and eliminate the reigning NPFL champions from the prestigious competition.
The result sends Rivers United into the Round of 16 stage of the President Federation Cup, while Enugu Rangers bow out after a spirited comeback ultimately ended in heartbreak.
