2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 13: Rangers International FC maintains winning momentum

Posted : 25 November 2024

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) reigning champions, Rangers International FC, extended their unbeaten streak to six matches after being held to a goalless draw by Heartland FC in a Match Day 13 NPFL 2024/2025 fixture at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri.

The Flying Antelopes’ Technical Adviser, Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, returned to the dugout after helping the Super Eagles secure an AFCON ticket. He retained most of the previous matchday squad, except for Kingdom Osayi and Ugwueze Chinemerem, who were replaced by Lucky Abdullahi and Kingsley Maduforo in a 4-3-3 formation.

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Heartland FC, under Coach Emmanuel Amuneke, started the game energetically, but the experienced Enugu side created more clear-cut chances in the attacking third.

Frank Uwumiro, Godwin Obaje, Saviour Isaac, and Kingsley Maduforo consistently troubled Heartland’s defense, led by Peter Afolanyo and Christian Molokwu, who provided solid cover for former junior international goalkeeper Chisom Chiaha.

Rangers came close to scoring three times in the first half. On the 15th and 42nd minutes, Heartland’s backline thwarted Godwin Obaje and Kazeem Ogunleye, while Chiaha produced a brilliant reflex save to deny Ogunleye’s powerful 30-meter strike, deflecting it onto the crossbar.

The introduction of Agu Kenechukwu and Ugwueze Chinemerem ten minutes into the second half further pushed Heartland into a defensive stance. Despite Rangers' relentless pressure, the best opportunity came late in the match when Godwin Obaje’s precise cross narrowly missed substitute Onyekachi Okafor, who had the goalkeeper at his mercy.

Chief Coach of Rangers, Ekeh Ekenedilichukwu, said after the game:
“It was a great display from our boys. We came to Owerri aiming for all three points, but we thank God for the one point we’re taking back home. We will continue working on areas that need improvement as we push for a successful season.”

Rangers remain fifth on the league table with 20 points from 13 matches. Their next match is against Lobi Stars FC of Makurdi in a Match Day 14 fixture scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 27, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 13: Rangers International FC maintains winning momentum

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