Rangers International secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over newly promoted Ikorodu City in a rescheduled Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match on Wednesday. The win at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos provided some respite for the Enugu-based side, who had recently been eliminated from the CAF Champions League by Angolan club Sagrada Esperanca.
Following their Champions League disappointment, Rangers were determined to regain their footing in domestic competition.
However, it took a gritty performance from Fidelis Ilechukwu’s team to claim all three points against a spirited Ikorodu City side.
The solitary goal came courtesy of Ugwueze Chinemerem, who headed home from a precise Kazeem Ogunleye corner, ensuring Rangers returned to winning ways.
Despite the narrow margin of victory, the Flying Antelopes demonstrated resilience and resolve, qualities they will need as they shift their focus entirely to the NPFL.
Rangers, who had been held to a goalless draw by El Kanemi Warriors in their season opener, came into the match eager to avoid further slip-ups.
The match started with both teams showing caution, but it was Rangers who gradually took control of the game.
Ikorodu City, in their first season in the top flight, did not make things easy for the visitors, holding firm at the back and looking to hit on the counter-attack.
But Rangers’ persistence eventually paid off in the second half when Chinemerem’s well-timed header found the back of the net.
Ikorodu City, backed by the home crowd, fought hard to equalize, creating several chances as they pressed for a way back into the game.
However, Rangers’ defense, marshalled effectively by their backline, held firm under pressure, ensuring they left Lagos with all three points.
The result marked a significant morale boost for Ilechukwu’s men, who are aiming to challenge at the top end of the NPFL this season.
Speaking after the match, Rangers head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu praised his team’s effort, noting the importance of the victory in light of their recent Champions League exit.
“It wasn’t easy, but the players showed character. We are focused on the league now, and we needed to get a result here to build momentum,” he said.
For Ikorodu City, the loss will be a tough pill to swallow, but their performance offered glimpses of potential as they adapt to life in Nigeria’s top football division.
The Lagos-based club will take encouragement from their ability to hold a more experienced Rangers side at bay for much of the game.
Rangers will now turn their attention to their next fixture, where they will host Remo Stars in Enugu, hoping to build on their first win of the campaign.
The Flying Antelopes, determined to put their continental disappointment behind them, are looking to make a strong statement in the NPFL as the season progresses.
