The iconic Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, fondly called The Cathedral, will take center stage on Sunday as Rangers International host Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) in a fierce battle of old rivals, headlining Matchday 12 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) 2025/2026 season.

Old Rivalry Renewed

This is not just another fixture; it’s a meeting steeped in history and pride. Two of Nigeria’s most traditional clubs with rich legacies, Rangers and Shooting Stars, share a rivalry that has stood the test of time.

Every encounter between these two sides carries intensity, passion, and a fight for supremacy, and Sunday’s clash promises to be no different.

Both teams are currently trying to rediscover their rhythm, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown with bragging rights firmly on the line.

Form Check

Rangers International come into this fixture following a hard-fought goalless draw away to El-Kanemi Warriors in Maiduguri, a result that underlined their resilience in tough conditions. However, the 2024 champions remain winless in their last three outings and will be desperate to bounce back in front of their home supporters at The Cathedral.

Shooting Stars, on the other hand, also arrive in Enugu with concerns over their recent dip in form. After going unbeaten in five consecutive matches, the Oluyole Warriors have now gone two games without a win, a trend they’ll be eager to reverse against one of their oldest rivals.

Why It Matters

This fixture goes beyond points on the table. It’s about pride, legacy, and dominance, a clash of footballing heritage between two traditional powerhouses.

Shooting Stars dominated this rivalry last season, completing a league double over Rangers, including a stunning victory in Enugu that silenced the home fans. That painful memory still lingers for the Flying Antelopes, who will be out to exact revenge and restore their authority on home soil.

With both teams searching for form and momentum, this derby could provide the spark needed to reignite their respective campaigns.

Head-to-Head (Since 2010)

• Matches Played: 18

• Rangers Wins: 6

• Shooting Stars Wins: 7

• Draws: 5

Shooting Stars have had the upper hand in recent encounters, winning the last three meetings between both sides. The last time Rangers triumphed in this fixture was back in 2023, on home turf.

Players to Watch

Rangers International

• Chidiebere Nwobodo: A dynamic winger whose pace and dribbling make him a constant threat from the flanks.

• Chidozie Iwundu: Rock-solid in defense and a danger from set-pieces, having scored twice from dead-ball situations this season.

• Godwin Obaje: The experienced striker with four goals this season returns after a two-game absence, offering a major boost to Rangers’ attack.

• Evans Ogbonda: An attacking left-back known for his overlaps and pinpoint crosses, already with two assists this term.

Shooting Stars SC

• Ikouwem Utin: The seasoned left-back who scored the famous winner at The Cathedral last season. His attacking presence could again prove decisive.

• Tijani Kabir: The team’s engine and October’s Player of the Month, tireless, disciplined, and key in midfield transitions.

• Ayobami Junior: Returns after missing the last match due to fatigue. His control and composure in midfield will be vital.

• Sodiq Ibrahim: A mobile forward with pace and sharp positioning, expected to lead the line for the Oluyole Warriors.

What to Expect

This rivalry rarely disappoints. The last encounter between these two sides produced a six-goal thriller in Ibadan on the final day of last season, where Shooting Stars triumphed 5–1 in front of a jubilant home crowd.

With both sides eager to ease pressure and regain momentum, fans can expect an intense, attacking contest under the Cathedral floodlights.

Rangers will aim to start on the front foot, feed off the home atmosphere, and reassert dominance. Shooting Stars, meanwhile, will draw confidence from their recent record in this fixture and may fancy another upset in Enugu.

Verdict

Two proud teams. One historic rivalry. Three vital points at stake.

With form, pride, and history all on the line, expect fireworks in Enugu as Rangers International and Shooting Stars SC renew their age-old rivalry in a match that once again headlines the NPFL weekend action.

Match Details

Venue: Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu
Date: Sunday, November 9th, 2025
Kick-off: 4:00 PM
Live Coverage: Propel Web & NPFL Live App