Match Preview: Rangers lock horns with struggling Heartland in Oriental derby

November 5, 2023, 7:58 AM

1.3k

Enugu Rangers will face Heartland in matchday seven of the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the Awka City Stadium on 5 November 2023.

Matches between these two, tagged “Oriental Derby,” mark the first one for the Flying Antelopes under the guidance of Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu.

Following a recent 2-1 loss to Lobi Stars during their midweek match on 2 November 2023, Rangers are determined to bounce back and secure maximum points against Heartland.

After a draw in their midweek encounter with Rivers United on league’s matchday six, The Naze Millionaires are the only team left without a win in the NPFL this season, they are geared up for the Oriental Derby against Rangers.

This face-off brings Coach Fidelis and Captain Chukwudi against their former club, adding an extra layer of excitement to the match.

The feeling you have when you know your next match is against your neighbour 😂.

Tell us where you will be on Sunday to watch the ORIENTAL DERBY 🫵🏾#HistoryTogether #NeverSayDie pic.twitter.com/5O2ej3flDp

— Rangers International FC (@Rangers_Intl) November 4, 2023

Reactions

Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, going up against his former team, is well-prepared despite expecting a tough match. He stated, “I know Heartland FC very well because it is my former team. So many things will come up in the game, but it is a game we are well-prepared for. No emotional attachment; we want to do everything to ensure we win convincingly.”

Reflecting on the midweek loss to Lobi Stars, Ilechukwu expressed his dissatisfaction. However, he has confidence in his players, saying the team will deliver in tomorrow’s game.

Concerns about potential fatigue due to the midweek match were dismissed by the coach, who emphasized their readiness, saying, “We worked on fatigue to make sure that the players are ready. No excuses about this match; even if it is 12 hours after the last game, we are ready.”

While acknowledging the team’s struggle with scoring goals in the second half, Ilechukwu stressed that he won’t put undue pressure on the players, as it may affect their performance.

Asked if he has sympathy for Heartland, Ilechukwu responded, “Everybody playing in the Nigeria Premier Football League is under pressure, so I don’t have sympathy for anybody. When you get ready, you go out, work, and come back. That’s football.” He also appealed to the fans to continue supporting the team and be patient as they look forward to returning to their home stadium, Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

Chukwudi Nwaodu, the former captain of Heartland and now captain of Rangers, expressed his excitement about playing against his former club. He pledged his commitment to defending the Flying Antelopes badge with all his strength.

Chukwudi thanked the Governor of Enugu State, Hon. Peter Mbah, for the welfare packages the team has received since his tenure. He believes that with this support and improved technicality; the players are ready to face any opponent.

Reflecting on the 3-1 defeat of Naze Millionaires by the Flying Antelopes during his time as the Naze’s Captain, Chukwudi expressed his determination not to experience such a loss again.

“To all our fans, I want to say thank you for all the support so far, and I want to appeal for more support throughout this season.” Chukwudi said to the fans.