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Rangers manager Fidelis Ilechukwu had only praise for rivals Enyimba after a narrow win in the Coal City Cup.
Enugu Rangers manager Fidelis Ilechukwu had nothing but praise for their arch-rivals Enyimba, following a narrow 1-0 victory in the opening match of the newly launched Coal City Cup on a chilly Thursday night.
This encounter, which echoed last season's fiercely contested NPFL title decider, saw the Flying Antelopes snatch the win from the Elephants in what Ilechukwu described as a hard-fought and difficult match.
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Rangers vs Enyimba: Ilechukwu lauds Elephants
The clash at 'The Cathedral', Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, proved to be a thrilling spectacle as Nigeria's most decorated sides faced off for early bragging rights in the preseason tournament.
Rangers, who dethroned Enyimba as champions, were on the edge of their seats as Agu Kenechukwu's left-footed strike in the 51st minute ultimately decided the fate of the match.
Kenechukwu's well-timed shot came after Okorie Chiedozie executed a brilliant cut-back, setting up the winner following Isaac Saviour’s astute pass that dissected the Enyimba defence.
But despite the narrow victory, Ilechukwu was quick to commend Enyimba for their impressive display under new coach Yemi Olarenwaju Daniel, who wants to bring glory back to Aba.
"It was a difficult game for us because we are rebuilding our team. Enyimba was much stronger than us and better than us in the first half," he admitted.
"They possessed more of the ball and created chances, but I think we were lucky to win today’s game. If you ask me to talk about this game, I will give it to Enyimba because of the quality they showed.
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I saw some top-class movement, reactions, and preparation, and I see them doing well in the CAFCC and NPFL."
The match saw an electric atmosphere as both teams fought tooth and nail for dominance. Enyimba, relentless in their pursuit of an equaliser, came close to breaking the deadlock several times.
Their star striker, Joseph Atule, forced a fantastic save from Rangers’ goalkeeper Japhet Opubo with a powerful shot in the 12th minute, while a potential game-opener from Ufere Chinedu was controversially ruled offside in the 23rd minute.
As the Coal City Cup continues, fans can expect more exhilarating action as these two giants of Nigerian football aim to solidify their positions ahead of the new season.
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For now, Rangers celebrate their hard-earned victory, but with Ilechukwu's words ringing true, the Elephants looked good and will certainly be ones to watch as they look to bounce back stronger.
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