Rangers International FC are aiming to salvage a disappointing 2024/25 season by winning the Federation Cup after suffering yet another home loss, this time against Enyimba, in the fierce Oriental derby, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The 2–1 defeat at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium marked Rangers’ sixth home loss of the campaign, the worst record in the league, surpassing even relegated Lobi Stars’ five home defeats.
Captain Chinemerem Ugwueze admitted that a poor start to the match cost his side dearly saying, “I think today was a poor start for us. We started the game badly and I believe it kind of affected our performance,” Ugwueze said.
“Before we could get back into the game, we were already two goals down and it took the best of us, I must confess.”
Ugwueze urged the fans to shift focus to the Federation Cup, recognising it as the club’s last chance for success this season.
“Our focus now, I think, we have just one lifeline which is the FA Cup. So far, so good, we’ve been outstanding there,” he stated. “Instead of dwelling on the loss, I think it’s high time we focus on what we can achieve.”
Rangers are set to face Plateau United in the Federation Cup quarter-finals in Abuja on May 3, a side who earlier inflicted a home defeat on the Enugu-based team. Nevertheless, Ugwueze remains optimistic stating, “Considering our run of form in the FA Cup, I’m confident in the team.”
Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu echoed his captain’s sentiments, lamenting the team’s struggles but stressing the importance of finishing the season positively.
“Seriously, it’s something that is very very difficult to explain that the defending champions are struggling to make top four. Not even top three. It’s so painful,” Ilechukwu admitted.
Despite the club’s injury challenges and a rotation of players in recent weeks, Ilechukwu insists the team will not lose hope ahead of the Plateau United clash saying, “It’s 50-50. We have the confidence that we are going to win. We’re not going to lose hope.
“We will do everything humanly possible technically to address the issue and give the boys confidence.”
