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Match Preview: Enugu Rangers aim to topple Kano Pillars in Maikaba’s return

Rangers International of Enugu aims to defeat Kano Pillars in matchday five of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), at the Awka City Stadium on Saturday, 28 October, 2023.

The Flying Antelopes managed a 1-1 draw against Kwara United at the Kwara Sports Complex in their last outing and are now gearing up for a clash against their distant rivals, Kano Pillars.

Kano Pillars, who have been inconsistent lately, faced a defeat at the hands of Abia Warriors. Nonetheless, a late-minute goal by Rabiu Ali at the Sani Abacha Stadium secured three points for them against Rivers United on matchday 4.

The match will see Pillars’ coach, Abdullahi Maikaba return to Rangers International after leaving the Flying Antelopes in June 2023 when his contract expired.

Maikaba’s not-too-impressive stint with the club saw him failing to guide them to a continental ticket and also narrowly escaping relegation with just two points above the drop zone at the end of the NPFL 2023 Abridged League season.

WHAT THEY SAY
Reactions from Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu suggest that the Sai Masu Gida boys are formidable, and he anticipates a tough match against them, considering their high-quality performance.

Regarding their readiness for the match, Ilechukwu stated, “The game is like any other game, and we are prepared. The boys understand that winning tomorrow’s game could place us in the first or second position on the league table, and we won’t miss that opportunity.”

Coach Ilechukwu also expressed admiration for Kano Pillars’ Coach Abdullahi Maikaba, describing him as a mentor and attributing the quality of the Gida boys to his influence.

“Abdullahi Maikaba is one of the best coaches in Nigeria,” Ilechukwu said. “He is a mentor, a father who many of us are looking forward to.”

“I took over from him from Plateau United and also took over from him from Rangers International, when you take over from a good coach, you will be able to understand the quality of the team he left behind.” He said.

Concerns about Rangers scoring in the first half and slowing down in the second half were addressed by Coach Ilechukwu, who noted the team’s intentions to score goals and maintain a strong defense. He expressed confidence that they would win the match and secure a top position in the league.

Godwin Obaje emphasized that the team is motivated by their recent draw in Kwara and understands the significance of winning in the upcoming game. He assured that they are mentally and physically prepared.

Coach Fidelis exuded confidence and pride in Godwin Obaje, labeling him the best striker in Nigeria. He compared Obaje to top international players like Ronaldo and Messi, expressing his belief that Obaje would ‘deliver the team” as both players deliver theirs.

HEAD TO HEAD
Rangers and Kano Pillars have faced each other 35 times since the 2003/2004 season. Rangers secured 15 wins, while Kano Pillars claimed 13, with 7 draws. These encounters witnessed a total of 72 goals, with the Flying Antelopes leading at 40 goals, while Gida has 32.

Their previous three games ended with one victory for Rangers, one draw, and one victory for Kano Pillars.

TEAM NEWS
Kalu Nweke and a some other players are sidelined for Rangers due to injuries while several key players have recovered and are ready to contribute to the team. Obaje reassures fans that they will deliver, and Coach Ilechukwu encourages fans to maintain their belief in the team, promising a difference in the current season.

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