NPFL title out of Rangers reach – Ilechukwu

Two weeks after waxing lyrical about their chances of winning the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League title, Rangers International coach Fidelis Ilechukwu seems to have given up on the Flying Antelopes’s title defence, with 11 points separating them from leaders Remo Stars after 22 matches, NewsNGR Sports Extra reports.

Having lost their last two matches, the defending champions bounced back from their recent slump, winning their last game 2-0 against Ikorodu City on Monday to move up to the fourth position in the table.

A goal on the stroke of halftime by veteran striker Godwin Obaje and another one just before stoppage time by Saviour Isaac secured their ninth win of the season.

Ilechukwu was however not buoyed by the win, as he downplayed their title chances, despite having made the title claims two weeks ago.

“We are positive with what we can achieve and we believe we can still string some unbeaten runs this season,” Ilechukwu said after the game.

“The league title looks somehow difficult because my friend (Ogunmodede) is serious about it. I think for now the league is in between Remo, who are close, 3SC are in the centre and Enyimba won away. Rangers are struggling and I don’t want the players to be under pressure. I also don’t want the fans to start complaining but we are very confident.”

Ilechukwu is in his second season with the Flying Antelopes.

He led them to their eighth NPFL title last season, amassing 70 points after 38 games to beat close challengers Remo Stars.

Their next game in the league is a trip to Bayelsa United on Sunday before returning home to face title chasers Remo Stars in Enugu.

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