‘No panic’ – Rangers International coach assures fans after pre-season draw
Fidelis Ilechukwu has reassured Rangers International fans not to worry about the team’s recent performance in a pre-season friendly.
The reigning Nigeria League champions were held to a 1-1 draw by Sierra Leone’s FC Kallon in the 2024 Coal City International Cup pre-season tournament at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Sunday night.
Garando Tekena put the Flying Antelopes ahead with a 10th-minute goal, following up a saved free-kick with a powerful left-footed shot from about 25 meters. FC Kallon’s Momoh Dumbuya equalized in the 50th minute after a swift counter-attack, sliding the ball past Rangers’ goalkeeper Lucky Abdullahi.
In his post-match comments, Ilechukwu said, “It was not a bad game for both sides. FC Kallon was very physical, but we showed good character, especially in the second half. With many new players, understanding the team is what matters to me.”
He added, “Our fans should not panic about the result. Pre-season is for assessing the team’s cohesion, technical, and tactical abilities. We will achieve our goals this season because we have what it takes.”
Rangers International will face Remo Stars in one of the semi-final matches on Monday, August 5, 2024. The first semi-final will feature Shooting Stars Sports Club against FC Kallon.
