2025 President Federation Cup: Rangers International FC soar past Heartland International FC

Posted : 04 April 2025

In a rain-drenched, pulsating encounter filled with drama and tension, Rangers International FC of Enugu triumphed over their fierce 'Oriental Rivals,' Heartland FC of Owerri, securing a hard-fought victory in the round of 32 of the 2025 President Federation Cup.

The match, played at a packed Awka City Stadium in Awka, Anambra State, ended 1-1 after regulation time, forcing a nerve-wracking penalty shootout that saw the 'Flying Antelopes' prevail 5-3.

The match began with Rangers dominating possession, but Heartland proved resilient, frustrating the Coal City side’s attacking forays.

Against the run of play, Heartland stunned the Enugu faithful in the 67th minute, capitalizing on a swift counter-attack to break the deadlock.

However, Rangers responded swiftly, showcasing their determination. In the 73rd minute, Isaac Saviour stepped up to take a free kick on the edge of the box and unleashed a thunderous strike that left the Heartland goalkeeper rooted to the spot, leveling the score and sending the stadium into a frenzy.

With no further goals in regulation time, the fate of the match rested on the dreaded penalty shootout.

Rangers displayed nerves of steel, with Isaac Saviour, Godwin Obaje, Evans Ogbonda, Bashir Usman, and Ikenna Stephen all converting their spot kicks with clinical precision.

Heartland, unfortunately, faltered, missing one of their four attempts, handing Rangers a 5-3 victory and a place in the round of 16.

The victory sparked jubilant scenes among the Rangers supporters, who celebrated their team's resilience and determination.

Coach Ekeh Ekenedilichukwu, speaking on behalf of Rangers' technical adviser, Fidelis Ilechukwu, praised his team's performance, acknowledging the intensity of the derby.

"It was a tough match as expected, but we gave our best to emerge victorious over our neighbors, Heartland. We keep working on the team as our target remains going as far as winning the trophy for the 7th time," Ekenedilichukwu stated.

Rangers now await their next opponent, Bendel Insurance FC of Benin City, in the round of 16. The 'Flying Antelopes' will be hoping to carry their momentum forward as they chase their ambition of lifting the prestigious Federation Cup trophy.

2025 President Federation Cup: Rangers International FC soar past Heartland International FC

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