The preseason match between the two Oriental rivals Rangers and Heartland ended in a 1-1 tie at the Awka City Stadium.
On the stroke of halftime, Joel Okoro gave Rangers the lead after being set up by a lovely pass from Chukwudi Nwaodu.
On the 53rd minute, Tunde Oyewole of Heartland scored the equaliser after going unmarked inside the area.
Goalkeepers Emeka Onyia for Rangers and Chisom Chiaha for Heartland made outstanding saves to conclude the game evenly despite both teams’ best efforts to score additional goals.
The 2023–24 Nigeria Professional Football League seasons of Rangers and Abia Warriors will open with matches against Doma United and Niger Tornadoes, respectively.
September 9 will mark the start of the new season.
