Daga to the Heart: Daniel's error costs Enyimba as Enugu Rangers end 7-year hoodoo

Nigeria youth international Daniel Daga was the villain as Enyimba’s title defense suffered another setback against Enugu Rangers in Aba in the NPFL. 

A crucial error from the talented midfielder proved costly as Rangers picked up a point away against the People’s Elephant for the first time in seven years following a 1-1 draw on Wednesday. 

The intense clash between the two Oriental brothers was keenly anticipated, with both teams living up to the pre-match hype after the 90.

Enyimba started the best possible way when Mbaoma Chijioke’s stunning finish opened the scoring after just 12 minutes of play.

However, the Flying Antelopes displayed resilience to stay in the game as they pushed on for the decisive equaliser which proved elusive until three minutes from full time. 

With the Elephants looking to hold on to their slim lead, Daga was caught on the ball by Kazeem Ogunleye, who let fly from ranger to beat Super Eagles goalkeeper Ojo Olorunleke.

It was no less than the Flying Antelopes deserved as they dominated the second 45.

Rangers almost stole all three points in added time when Auwalu Naziru had a one-on-one with the Enyimba goalkeeper after initial good work to get past the defence.

However, Naziru’s finish was not as good as the build-up to the chance as Olorunleke, this time, pulled off a sensational stop to save Enyimba from further heartbreak.

Following the result in Aba, Enyimba stay in the top four but are now five points behind leaders, Doma United, who defeated Heartland FC 1-0 in Gombe in the other game of the day.

Meanwhile, for the Antelopes, the point in Aba is their first against Enyimba in Abia in seven years and that means they have now taken four points from a possible six in the last two matches to move into the 10 on the standings.