Rivers United produced one of their most dramatic performances of the season as they defeated newly crowned NPFL champions Enugu Rangers 3-2 in a thrilling President Federation Cup Round of 32 clash at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
The Port Harcourt side made a blistering start to the encounter, with Chijioke Mbaoma heading them into an early lead in the 5th minute before Wisdom Samuel doubled the advantage in the 34th minute, putting Rivers United firmly in control at 2-0 before the break.
First-Half Dominance as Rivers United Fly Out of the Blocks
At that stage, it looked like a perfect response from Finidi George’s men following their narrow NPFL title loss to Rangers, who had edged them by a single point just days earlier.
However, the champions refused to roll over. Rangers International responded in the second half, first pulling one back in the 59th minute when Godwin Obaje calmly converted from the penalty spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.
The comeback gained momentum in the 66th minute as Agwu Precious restored parity, silencing the Rivers United fans and shifting the momentum firmly in Rangers’ favour.
Late Heartbreak as Rivers United Strike Again in Stoppage Time
Just when extra time looked inevitable, Rivers United delivered a decisive blow deep into stoppage time.
Substitute Handsome Surveyor, introduced in the 78th minute, rose highest to head home the winner in the 95th minute, sealing a dramatic 3-2 victory.
The late strike completed a remarkable victory that sent the Pride of Rivers into the next round, while Rangers bowed out of the Federation Cup despite a spirited fight back.
The result adds another intense chapter to the rapidly growing rivalry between Rivers United and the Coal City side.
After losing the NPFL title by a single point, Finidi George’s side have now delivered a powerful response on the pitch, knocking out the champions in dramatic fashion.
For Rangers, it is a painful exit after fighting back from two goals down, while Rivers United march on with renewed belief and a statement win in Uyo.