Rivers United Must Beware, Says Former Midfielder Duke Udi

Former Nigeria international Duke Udi has cautioned Rivers United not to assume the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title is already secured.

Speaking exclusively to Completesports.com, Udi said the championship race remains wide open despite Rivers United’s current lead. He singled out Rangers International as strong contenders capable of producing dramatic twists before the season ends.

Rivers United currently top the NPFL table with 49 points and two games in hand, while eight-time champions Rangers International follow closely on 47 points. With ten matches remaining, 30 points are still up for grabs.

“Ten games are still remaining. That’s quite massive — 30 points yet to be played for. For me, anything can still happen,” Udi said. “Yes, Rivers United are top of the ladder and still have two games in hand. But expect more twists and turns in the title race even with ten games remaining.”

Udi praised Rangers’ recent form under Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, who returned from his Super Eagles assignment, saying the Flying Antelopes are capable of challenging Rivers United until the very end.

“There’s no doubt Rivers United are top of the table and still have two games in hand. But I strongly believe the title race is still open. It could go down to the wire where twists and turns should be expected,” he said.

Reflecting on his experience with Rangers, Udi added: “I was part of the coaching crew when Rangers won the league in 2016. I know Rangers can fight for it. Nasarawa United and Abia Warriors are also in the mix.”

He also cited his time with Enyimba as an example of how quickly fortunes can change in the NPFL. “In 2001, we came from far behind to finish fourth and went on to win the Super Four trophy. There’s no Super Four this season, so the top teams face a tough battle for the title. It’s not over yet. It’s not a done deal for Rivers United.”

Udi enjoyed a long career with both Nigerian and international clubs, including Shooting Stars SC, Grasshoppers (Switzerland), SK Slovan Bratislava (Slovakia), PFC Krylia Sovetov Samara (Russia), Hapoel Rishon LeZion (Israel), Plateau United, Enyimba, Julius Berger, Kwara United, Lobi Stars, Sunshine Stars, Akwa United, Niger Tornadoes and Giwa FC before retiring in 2014.