Match Report: Odoh, Obaje scores as Rangers humble Tornadoes in Awka

The Awka City stadium witnessed an exciting match in the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) as Rangers International triumphed 2-1 over Niger Tornadoes.

Goals from Odoh and Obaje were sufficient to secure a much-needed victory for Fidelis Ilechukwu‘s side, following a prior defeat to Remo Stars on Matchday two.

How it happened

Frustration was evident on the touchline as Rangers’ attack squandered golden opportunities. Clement’s 8th-minute strike narrowly missed the goalpost, a chance that could have given Rangers an early lead.

Nonetheless, the deadlock was broken in the 17th minute when Odoh capitalized on Kazeem’s free-kick to put the home team in the lead. The goal was contested but was ultimately confirmed by the linesman as having crossed the line.

Niger Tornadoes came close to equalizing shortly after but was thwarted by Ifeayi’s exceptional defensive save, which regrettably resulted in his injury and substitution.

Godwin Obaje extended Rangers’ lead with a goal, concluding the first half.

The second half commenced with Niger Tornadoes applying pressure on their hosts. This pressure led to a consolation goal from Bashir Usman, offering Tornadoes a glimmer of hope.

Coach Abara Hamza made several substitutions during the second half to change the game’s dynamics. It was a hard-fought battle at the Akwa City stadium, with Enugu Rangers securing all three points. This marked their sixth point of the season, having won two of their three NPFL games this season.

Statistics

FULL-TIME STATISTICS

Rangers International 2-1 Niger Tornadoes

Rangers return to winning way courtesy of goals from Joel Odoh and Godwin Obaje.

The Flying Antelopes resisted all pressure from Ikon Allah Boys coming back in the game after Bashiru Usman's 54th minute goal. pic.twitter.com/YvAGf7awh0

— Made In Africa Sport (@madeinafricaweb) October 15, 2023

Reactions

Coach Suleman Alli, the chief coach of Rangers, acknowledged the challenges of football after their win over Tornadoes. He stated, “Football is not that easy; We thank God for the three points we have already taken.”

He also dismissed claims that Rangers went to sleep in the second half, saying, “No, they didn’t go to sleep; it’s a game plan, and that’s why we have the three points.”

Coach Suleman highlighted that Niger Tornadoes is not a small team, referencing their past encounters.

He discussed their preparations for the game against Kwara United, stating, “We will work towards that and see what we are going to get there.”

In his post-match reaction, Hamza Abarah commended his players’ spirited performance. He said, “The early goal we conceded was demoralizing, but we came back stronger in the second half. Fidelis and I know each other well, and that reflected in the game’s balance.”

What’s next

Rangers will be traveling away to Ilorin to face Kwara United, while Tornadoes will host Bayelsa United in matchday four of the NPFL.