Rangers FC secured a crucial 2-1 home victory over Enyimba at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu on Sunday, reclaiming the top spot in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with three matches remaining in the season. The Flying Antelopes, under head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, showed resilience after falling behind early in the second half. Enyimba took the lead through Wonah Williams just four minutes after the restart, but Rangers responded swiftly. Chidozie Iwundu equalized one minute after the hour mark, and Ifeanyi Onyebuchi sealed the win with the decisive goal in the 68th minute.
Ilechukwu praised his team’s preparation and mental strength, emphasizing that every match demands full focus. “As a coach, I prepare for everything. When you make a mistake in football, you get punished,” he told Rangers’ media team. He highlighted the team’s determination to avoid a third consecutive loss, stating, “After two games, I don’t think we will go three without winning. I had that mindset we would not go home without winning.” The victory underscores Rangers’ consistency and tactical discipline as they chase their ninth NPFL title.
The win also showcased the depth of Rangers’ squad, particularly their defensive contributions. With top scorer Godwin Obaje still without a goal in recent matches, defenders Chidozie Iwundu and Ifeanyi Onyebuchi stepped up to deliver crucial goals. Ilechukwu stressed the importance of versatility in attack, saying, “We are a scoring team. You must train your players to have many ways of scoring.” He added that relying solely on strikers is risky, and having defenders who can score from set-pieces or corners gives the team a significant edge.
Despite the win, Ilechukwu urged his players to remain humble and focused. “We are very humble in our games, very, very humble,” he said, reflecting on the team’s approach. Rangers now sit at the summit of the NPFL table with three games left, and their next challenge is an away fixture against Bayelsa United at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa. The match will be a test of their composure and ability to maintain momentum under pressure.
As the season enters its final stretch, Rangers’ performance against Enyimba highlights their determination and adaptability. With a balanced squad and a disciplined mindset, they remain strong contenders for the NPFL title. The team’s ability to respond to adversity and draw contributions from unexpected sources could be the key to their success in the coming weeks.
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