2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 4: Titanic battle in Ikenne as Remo Stars welcome Rangers Int'l

Posted : 28 September 2024

The reigning NPFL champions, Rangers International FC of Enugu, will this weekend target a splendid result in the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Match Day 4 fixture against the vice-champions of last season, Remo Stars FC of Ikenne, at their backyard, Remo Stars Stadium.

With both teams out of continental competitions, the die is cast for an interesting encounter as the ‘Flying Antelopes’ push to stabilize their resolve for a successful title defense, while the Ikenne side chases its first title win.

Rangers, still basking in the euphoria of a 1-0 win over the new premiership boys, Ikorodu City F.C., in Lagos midweek, will be deploying everything in their arsenal to stop the high-riding wards of coach Daniel Ogunmodede, who have not dropped any points or conceded any goals since the start of the season.

With compact, resolute defending, sleek midfield play, and an alert attack expected to be fielded by coach Fidelis Ilechukwu against his compatriot in the senior male national football team, Rangers fans are assured of a quality performance.

Rangers enjoy a slight edge over their hosts in this top-of-the-bill encounter, which will be broadcast live by the host broadcaster. They have secured three wins in eight encounters between the teams, alongside three draws and two losses, with Rangers' 1-2 win on 27/08/2017 standing out as the only away victory between the two sides.

This season, both teams have been in fine form. The ‘Flying Antelopes’ have notched up three wins, two draws, and one loss, scoring five goals and conceding four in six matches. Meanwhile, their opponents, Remo Stars, have won four and lost one, scoring seven goals and conceding three in five matches played so far.

Speaking ahead of the crunch tie, Rangers' Technical Adviser, Fidelis Ilechukwu, said, “Remo Stars is currently the best side in the league, with so much energy and quality. I know it’s going to be a difficult match, but we are always positive about what we can achieve.

“We need to build on the success we achieved in Lagos against Ikorodu City and hope for a positive result in Ikenne.”

Captain of the Enugu side, Chinemerem Ugwueze, after his goal secured the win against Ikorodu City midweek, added:

“If we are going to successfully defend the title we won last season, we need to pick up points on the road and consolidate our good home form.

“No doubt, Remo has shown some quality since the league started, but we are determined and motivated to get something in Ikenne by God’s grace.”

The Match Day 4 NPFL 2024/2025 fixture is expected to kick off at 5:30 pm on Sunday, September 29.

2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 4: Titanic battle in Ikenne as Remo Stars welcome Rangers Int'l

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