The highly anticipated Oriental Derby between Enyimba International of Aba and Rangers International of Enugu, part of Matchday 35 in the Nigeria Premier Football League, ended in chaos despite initial promises of excitement and glamor. This marquee match, hosted at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, saw tensions boil over in dramatic fashion, culminating in the abandonment of the game following a controversial last-minute penalty decision.
How did the game go?
The match, played before a packed crowd of over 30,000 fans in a stadium with an official capacity of 22,000, was poised to be a thrilling encounter. Throughout the first half, both teams played cautiously, resulting in a goalless draw. However, the tension broke in the 97th minute when Referee John Ojeleye awarded a penalty to Rangers International. The penalty was given after Enyimba defender Pascal Eze appeared to pull back Rangers striker Godwin Obaje as he was attempting a shot on goal inside the box.
Photo credit: Elegbete Tv
This decision instantly sparked outrage among Enyimba players and staff, who vehemently protested the call. The penalty, viewed by some as a fair decision due to the visible shirt pull, was seen by others as a dubious call that unfairly tilted the game. The resultant uproar led to Enyimba players abandoning the match in protest, and it wasn’t long before fans from both sides stormed the pitch, causing widespread disruption and forcing the game to be postponed.
What does this mean for Enugu Rangers and Enyimba United?
The chaotic end to the match could have severe repercussions for both clubs. Enugu Rangers, who allowed over 30,000 fans into a stadium with a capacity of just 22,000, could face significant penalties. The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) board is likely to scrutinize their failure to provide adequate security, which resulted in the pitch invasion and subsequent disruption.
For Enyimba International, the consequences could be even more severe. The players’ refusal to continue the game after the penalty was awarded, coupled with reports and videos showing violent conduct against match officials, puts them in a precarious position. The NPFL board might impose heavy fines, match suspensions, or even points deductions as a result of these actions.
The fallout from the Oriental Derby is set to be closely observed by fans and officials alike. Both clubs will need to address their shortcomings—Rangers in terms of crowd control and Enyimba in terms of player discipline. The NPFL board’s decisions in the coming days will be critical to setting precedents for handling such disruptions and ensuring the integrity of the league.
Ultimately, the Oriental Derby, instead of being remembered for its potential to decide the league title, will now be remembered for the chaos and controversy that overshadowed it