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Goal-mouth struggle |
Chiedozie
Jude Okorie etched his name into Rangers International FC folklore, scoring the
decisive goal that sent the "Flying Antelopes" soaring into the Round
of 32 of the 2025 President Federation Cup. His 65th-minute strike proved the
difference against a determined Kano Pillars side at the Bwari Township Stadium
in Abuja on Tuesday morning.
With head
coach Fidelis Ilechukwu on international duty with the Super Eagles in Rwanda,
chief coach Ekeh Ekenedilichukwu and his staff stepped up, fielding a largely
unchanged lineup from their recent NPFL victory over Kwara United. The match
began with a tense, evenly contested first half, featuring impressive
goalkeeping displays, particularly from the busier Kano Pillars shot-stopper,
Abuchi Okeke.
The second
half saw Rangers increase their attacking pressure. Okorie and substitute Kingsley
Maduforo formed a formidable strike partnership, constantly testing the Kano
Pillars defense. Behind them, the midfield quartet of Isaac Saviour, Ikechukwu
Mgbemena, Hillary Ekawu, and Daniel Onyia controlled the center of the pitch,
minimizing pressure on their own backline.
Okorie, a
constant threat, capitalized on a defensive mix-up to break the deadlock.
Maduforo's skillful run and cross caused confusion between the Kano Pillars
goalkeeper and a defender, leaving Okorie with an easy finish.
Rangers
nearly doubled their lead in the 79th minute, but Kano Pillars goalkeeper
Abuchi Okeke made a brilliant save to deny Maduforo after a well-weighted pass
from Williams Wonah.
"This is
a fantastic result, a perfect response to our league defeats against Kano
Pillars," said coach Ekeh Ekenedilichukwu in a post-match interview.
"This victory provides a significant
morale boost as we pursue success in the Federation Cup and the remainder of
the league season. Our opponents showed their quality, but we were
well-prepared. We appreciate the unwavering support of our fans."
Rangers now
turn their attention to a rearranged NPFL 2024/2025 matchday 30 fixture against
Nasarawa United, scheduled for Friday, March 21, 2025, at the Lafia City
Stadium.
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