NPFL Standings: Rangers robbed in Ibadan, Enyimba blow chance at home 3 days after chaotic derby

The Nigerian Premier Football League, NPFL, title race has taken another twist after the leading contenders Rangers International and Enyimba all dropped points on a controversy-filled Matchday 36.

Pulse Sports can report that leaders Rangers International saw their unbeaten run ended agonisingly by Shooting Stars in Ibadan on Wednesday night. 

Christian Pyagbara's first-half header proved the difference, but the Flying Antelopes will feel hard done by after being denied a clear penalty in the second period.

Despite dominating proceedings and appealing furiously to the officials, Rangers' protests fell on deaf ears as the 10,000 Ibadan crowd celebrated Shooting extending their home unbeaten streak.

The defeat was Rangers’ first in four matches in the explosive Football League.

While their rivals faltered, defending champions Enyimba missed a huge chance to capitalise after being held 1-1 at home by relegation-battlers Bayelsa United.

The People's Elephant took the lead through Alade Balogun, but defensive shakiness allowed the visitors to peg them back in Aba to leave Olanrewaju Yemi's side deflated.

After the chaotic scenes in Enugu the previous matchday and the boardroom decision that followed, the holders will see this as points dropped rather than one gained. 

The biggest winners were Remo Stars, who thrashed Heartland 4-1 courtesy of a Stanley Joseph brace to leapfrog Enyimba into second, just two points behind Rangers.

The Sky Blues' thumping win also sees them leapfrog Enyimba in the latest twisting NPFL title race shake-up.

At the bottom, Sporting Lagos finally dropped into the relegation places after a shock 2-1 home loss to Plateau United.

With twists, turns and controversies at every corner, the scene is set for a dramatic climax as the contenders enter the final straight of a thrilling NPFL title race.