The highly-anticipated Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match between Enugu Rangers and Enyimba FC ended in chaos on Sunday as fans invaded the pitch, forcing the game to be abandoned during stoppage time. The incident occurred at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu.
The game, which was goalless in added time, took a dramatic turn when referee John Ojeleye awarded a penalty to the home side, Rangers. Enyimba fans, protesting the decision, stormed the pitch, disrupting the match.
Both teams had been locked in a stalemate throughout the game, with Rangers unable to convert several scoring opportunities and Enyimba showcasing strong defense. The penalty was awarded after a Rangers attacker was fouled in the box, leading to protests from Enyimba’s players and management.
The tension escalated as Enyimba’s players refused to continue, and their fans began throwing objects onto the pitch, eventually invading it. The linesman, who had signaled the penalty, was also attacked.
The match, broadcast live on StarTimes Beta Sports Channel 244, attracted a large crowd, given its potential impact on the title race. Rangers currently lead the league with 62 points, while Enyimba follows closely with 60 points.
The NPFL officials will now decide whether to award Rangers the three points, which would extend their lead, or reschedule the remaining minutes of the match to be completed.
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