NPFL: Fidelis Ilechukwu declares Rangers ready to challenge for the crown

Enugu Rangers technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu has issued a bold declaration regarding his team’s preparedness to fight for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title.

The “Flying Antelopes” currently occupy a formidable second position on the log, trailing leaders Rivers United by a solitary point with only eight high-stakes fixtures remaining in the current campaign.

RANGERS UNDETERRED BY TITLE RACE PRESSURE

In a briefing ahead of their crucial Sunday showdown with El-Kanemi Warriors, Ilechukwu emphasized that his squad is operating without the burden of external pressure. He noted that the Coal City giants are adopting a disciplined, “one-match-at-a-time” philosophy to navigate the final stretch of the season.

“There is no change in our messaging; we refuse to be weighed down by the pressure of the league standings. Our approach remains incremental—we focus entirely on the 90 minutes ahead of us, and only after that whistle do we shift our focus to the next challenge,” Ilechukwu of Rangers stated.

The tactician expressed immense faith in the psychological fortitude of his players as they hunt for silverware.

“This group understands exactly what is required to cross the finish line. They possess the necessary elite attitude, the technical capacity, and the strength of character to execute our tactical blueprint. From my perspective, we are constantly in a state of readiness.”

The eight-time NPFL champions have a golden opportunity to leapfrog into the top spot with a victory over El-Kanemi Warriors at the iconic Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium this Sunday. Such a result would pile the pressure on Rivers United, who are not scheduled to face Nasarawa United in Lafia until their Monday afternoon fixture.