Rangers aim to rebound in NPFL clash against Ikorodu City
Rangers International FC are set to face Ikorodu City FC in a rescheduled Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) matchday two fixture in Lagos. The encounter comes as Rangers seek to recover from their recent elimination from the CAF Champions League, where they suffered a narrow 3-2 aggregate defeat to Angola’s Sagrada Esperança. The upcoming match is slated for Wednesday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan.
Rangers, also known as the Flying Antelopes, have emphasized the importance of this fixture as they look to regain momentum after their continental disappointment.
The team expressed their determination on social media, stating: “It’s time to make it count,” signaling their intent to bounce back with a win.
Under head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, Rangers began their NPFL campaign with a goalless draw against El-Kanemi Warriors in their season opener.
The team will be aiming for their first victory of the season when they face Ikorodu City, a newly promoted side in the NPFL.
Rangers’ performance against Ikorodu City will be crucial, as they seek to rebuild confidence following their early exit from continental competition.
Despite a strong showing in the CAF Champions League, Rangers were unable to overcome Sagrada Esperança in the two-legged affair, leaving them to now focus solely on domestic success.
The club will be eager to avoid any further setbacks as they look to challenge for honors in the NPFL.
Meanwhile, Ikorodu City will be keen to make their mark in the NPFL and prove that they can compete with one of Nigeria’s most established football clubs.
While the Lagos-based team may lack the top-tier experience of Rangers, they will be motivated to secure a positive result on their home turf.
The match provides Ikorodu City with an opportunity to make a statement early in the season and potentially cause an upset.
Following the midweek clash against Ikorodu City, Rangers will have little time to rest as they prepare for another challenging fixture against Remo Stars.
The Coal City-based club will host Remo Stars in Enugu, with both matches presenting significant hurdles in their quest for a strong start to the season.
Remo Stars, who have enjoyed a positive start to the season, currently sit at the top of the table, and will undoubtedly be a tough opponent for Rangers.
As Rangers look to secure their first league win and move up the NPFL standings, these upcoming games could prove vital in setting the tone for their 2023-24 campaign.
With head coach Ilechukwu aiming to instill confidence and tactical discipline in his squad, all eyes will be on how the Flying Antelopes respond to recent challenges.
In what is expected to be an intense match at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Rangers will hope that their experience and quality shine through, while Ikorodu City will be looking to cause a surprise and gain a foothold in the league early on.
