Rangers International 0-0 Katsina United: Chanji Boys tames Flying Antelopes in Awka
Rangers International were held to a goalless draw by Katsina United in matchday nine of the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the Awka City Stadium on Sunday, 19 November 2023.
Katsina United put up a strong defense, becoming the first team to stop Rangers from scoring in the league this season.
Though on different occasions, glaring opportunities were available for Rangers to take the lead and secure the maximum points but were all misused.
How it happened
It was a defensive match between the Flying Antelopes and the Chanji Boys as both sides were unable to find the back of the net.
The first attempt for the host to lay the ball to rest in their visitor’s net came from David Chimezie in the 6th minute, giving a direct shot towards the post but the ball was saved by Katsina’s goalkeeper, Kolimba Alladuom.
Saviour Isaac played relentlessly but was repeatedly denied scoring by Chanji Boys’ defense. Despite two free-kick attempts, one saved by Kolimba and the other narrowly missing the net, the score remained unchanged.
Godwin Obaje missed a clear opportunity by passing the ball to Saviour instead of taking a shot himself, leading to fan frustration. Coach Fidelis granted the substitution, bringing in Jonas Emmanuel.
Chidiebere Nwobodo, Ejike Ugochukwu, and Austin Onyemaechi attempted to score, but Kolimba of Chanji Boys thwarted their efforts.
Katsina United players received several yellow cards, and a Rangers technical crew member earned a yellow card for interfering with the referees.
Chanji Boys executed a well-planned defensive game, with Madaki Chris making acrobatic clearances.
Substitutions were made by both coaches, introducing new players into the match.
Statistics
FULL-TIME STATISTICS
Enugu Rangers 0-0 Katsina United
In the league's only goalless match of the week, Chanji Boys of Katsina held Rangers at the Awka City Stadium.
Resultantly, the Flying Antelopes drop outside the top four after failing to score in an NPFL game for the… pic.twitter.com/isZKVCSznh
— Made In Africa Sport (@madeinafricaweb) November 19, 2023
Reactions
Rangers coach, Fidelis Ilechukwu expressed dissatisfaction with the draw, attributing it to hard luck.
“We gave our best, we tried to push, we did all we can, but you know in football, we have to chip it to hard luck,” Ilechukwu said. “It’s quite very painful game, I believe that we are suppose to get something better, but it didn’t work that way and it so painful.”
The Antelopes’ gaffer also acknowledged Katsina United’s effective defensive game.
“I think in today’s game, they changed little bit in their formation, they played 4-5-1, the wingers didn’t operate, a team that have, probably one attempt in ninty minutes.”
“They came with a defensive game, and I think it worked for them, we tried to push forward, but we were not able to break the defense line.”
Ilechukwu shrugs off all pressure and shifts his attention to the upcoming oriental derby with rival, Abia Warriors.
“We are not going to be under pressure going into the game, I think we have to focus on how to play Abia Warriors, which are two games without a win, it will be very difficult game, but we have to prepare for the game, prepare the boys, we must push harder and push for the next game.”
For Katsina United, coach Tope Bolus highlighted the tactical approach that enabled Chanji Boys to secure vital draw in the match. He emphasized playing with confidence regardless of the venue.
“When you look at the game, it’s tactical,” Bolus said. “Rangers is a good side, We also are a good side. You have to put fear away from your boys, that you are playing an away game.”
“Anywhere you go, you play like you are playing at home, that’s the way it
supposed to be. So we come here, and looked at it as we were playing in katsina, so we don’t fear.”
With concerns for the team, Bolus said he replaced players on yellow cards to avoid further booking which will make them unavailable for the next home games.
“I started thinking about the home match, so I don’t want to get problems with red cards, so that’s why I took them off, and those who are on the bench are equal to the task.” He said.
What’s next
Rangers International will be traveling to Umuahia for the Oriental derby against Abia Warriors on 26 November, 2023 for matchday 10 of the NPFL.
On the other hand will Katsina United welcome Bayelsa United at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium the same day.
