2025 President Federation Cup: Rangers Int'l FC spanks Ijele FC in final

Posted : 24 February 2025

Perennial Enugu State President Federation Cup champions, Rangers International FC, have once again been crowned champions of the 2025 Enugu President Federation Cup, courtesy of a 3-0 thrashing of NNL side, Ijele FC.

The highly entertaining final match took place inside ‘The Cathedral,’ Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, with many spectators in the stands and top government officials watching from the V.I.P pavilion as coach Fidelis Ilechukwu’s tutored side dominated the young but energetic Ijele boys.

Chief coach of Rangers, Ekeh Ekenedilichukwu, rested most of the top stars who have been competing in the NPFL for this encounter. However, the matchday squad did not disappoint, as the Ikenna Stephen-captained side went in search of early goals, which were initially resisted by the backline of the NNL side, anchored by the trio of Chidiebere Ogbodo, Oputa Nzube, and Anibueze James.

Despite the tight defending from the young side, Rangers’ midfield sensation, Daniel Onyia, broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute, rifling home a powerful shot from 30 meters. The goalkeeper stood rooted to the spot as the fans rose to celebrate a spectacular goal.

When both sides returned for the second half, Rangers intensified their search for more goals with the introduction of Monday Yakubu for young Ogbodo Kelechi. In the 54th minute, FIFA World Cup star Michael Uchebo stabbed home the second goal for the ‘Flying Antelopes’ after receiving a pass from Effimi Nsi, who had done well to rob a defender of the ball and evade several tackles inside the box.

Daniel Onyia secured his brace in the 67th minute when his long-range shot took a wicked deflection, sending the opposing goalkeeper, Ojobo Ifebuche, the wrong way. Rangers had further chances, especially in the 77th minute when substitute Nnaemeka Onyekwere unleashed a left-footed shot destined for the top corner, but Ijele’s substitute goalkeeper, Onyia Ifechukwu, produced a splendid save.

Medals were presented to both teams, who have now qualified to represent Enugu State in the National President Federation Cup 2025. Rangers were also awarded a giant trophy, presented by Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Barrister Lloyd Ekweremadu, who represented the Executive Governor of Enugu State, H.E. Dr. Peter Mbah.

Coach Ekenedilichukwu, who led the ‘Flying Antelopes’ from the dugout, said after the match:

“It was a great match, not just because we won, but because of the quality displayed by our opponents.

"We came prepared to win, and we won. We give all the glory to God.

"We did not panic when the goals didn’t come early, but we quietly worked our way through, and the result speaks for itself. I believe we have the quality to go for the national trophy.”

Next up for the reigning NPFL champions is a clash against Sunshine Stars FC in a rescheduled matchday 26 NPFL 2024/2025 fixture, set for Wednesday, February 26, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

2025 President Federation Cup: Rangers Int'l FC spanks Ijele FC in final

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