2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 17: Rangers Int'l FC secures valuable point in Katsina

Posted : 17 December 2024

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) reigning champions, Rangers International FC, secured another point on the road as Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu's side extended their unbeaten run to 10 matches with a goalless draw against the home side, Katsina United, at Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina, in a Match Day 17 fixture of the 2024/2025 NPFL season.

Chief Coach of the ‘Flying Antelopes’, Ekeh Ekenedilichukwu, who led the squad to Katsina, kept faith with the last match day squad, with the exception of one player, as Godwin Obaje and Frank Uwumiro led the attack, and goalkeeper Lucky Abdullahi stood between the sticks.

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The first half saw a balanced game, especially in the midfield, where Hillary Ekawu, Chinemerem Ugwueze, Ejike Ugochukwu, and Kenechukwu Agu dominated for the visitors, while Azeez Falolu, Usman Bara’U, Destiny Godwin, and Emmanuel Okoro held their ground for the hosts.

Frank Uwumiro had the brightest opportunity in the first half when he dribbled his way past a sea of defenders, but was fouled by the Katsina United goalkeeper on the edge of the box in the 26th minute, which provided some relief for the home fans who had come out in their numbers for the encounter.

In the second half, the home side upped their game with Moses Effiong, Boslam Dawi, and Destiny Ashadi pulling the strings, but they found the Rangers' backline, anchored by Austin Opara, Ikenna Stephen, Evans Ogbonda, and Effimi Nsi, too difficult to break down.

Godwin Obaje and substitute Kingsley Maduforo were presented with opportunities to secure the win for the defending league champions in the 50th and 70th minutes, but goalkeeper Kolimba produced spectacular saves to keep the home side in the game. At the other end of the pitch, Lucky Abdullahi was at his best, denying Moses Effiong and Azeez Falolu promising chances.

After the match, Coach Ekeh Ekenedilichukwu said, “It was a great game that could have gone either way, and I give my players credit for holding out to earn this result.

“We actually came to Katsina to win, but we are happy with the point that we are taking back to Enugu.

“We will go back and work hard for our upcoming game against our old rivals, 3SC.

“I call on our fans to keep supporting and believing in the team as we will make them proud at the end of the season.”

With this result, Rangers maintain their 3rd position on the 20-team log with 28 points from 17 matches.

2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 17: Rangers Int'l FC secures valuable point in Katsina

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