Rangers International have been crowned champions of the 2026 NPFL Invitational Pre-season Tournament after defeating Plateau United 1-0 in the final at the New Jos Stadium on Sunday.
Justice Akugre scored the decisive goal with a 28th-minute header as the reigning Nigeria Premier Football League champions ended the six-team competition with another victory.
Plateau United responded strongly after the break and pushed for an equaliser, but Rangers held firm to protect their advantage and lift the trophy ahead of the new domestic season.
Earlier at the same venue, Mighty Jets claimed third place following a 1-0 victory over Katsina United.
Tochukwu Ibedu scored the only goal of the third-place playoff in the 39th minute to ensure the Jos side finished the tournament on the podium.
The competition, which began on August 19, featured Rangers International, Rivers United, Plateau United, El-Kanemi Warriors, Mighty Jets and Katsina United.
The tournament provided the participating clubs with competitive matches ahead of the new NPFL season, while also offering additional preparation for teams involved in continental football.
Rangers, Rivers United and El-Kanemi Warriors are among Nigeria’s representatives in the 2026/27 CAF inter-club competitions.
For Rangers, winning the tournament provides a timely boost as the Enugu side prepares to defend its NPFL title while also turning its attention to the CAF Champions League.
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