All you need to know about Rangers Int’l vs U.S Zilimadjou
Rangers International of Enugu, the reigning Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) champions, are gearing up for their CAF Champions League 2024/2025 preliminary round match against U.S Zilimadjou from Comoros Island. With the competition fast approaching, the Flying Antelopes are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations.
Under the guidance of head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, Rangers have been ramping up their training sessions at their base, known as the Cathedral. Despite the off-season departure of key players, the team remains focused on a strong start to their continental campaign.
“The team is gradually getting to the level required to compete effectively in the CAF Champions League,” Ilechukwu said in an interview with Rangers media after a demanding training session on Monday. “Playing both legs of the preliminary round in Nigeria is a big advantage for us. Even though Uyo isn’t our home, we’ve built a mentality that anywhere can be home. We’re fully prepared for this game because we know how important it is.”
Ilechukwu emphasised the importance of team cohesion, noting that the players are bonding well and improving with each session. “Team cohesion is coming together, and we’re getting better with each session. This has been our focus over the past weeks. We’re in a rebuilding phase, but I’m optimistic about what we can achieve after these games,” he added.
Interestingly, the first leg of the preliminary round will be hosted by U.S Zilimadjou in Uyo on Sunday, August 18, 2024. Rangers will then host the return leg at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, also known as the ‘Nest of Champions,’ in Uyo on Friday, August 23, 2024.
The decision to use Uyo as the venue follows issues with both Zilimadjou’s Baumer Stadium in Moroni and Rangers’ Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, which did not meet CAF’s standards for hosting matches in its premier club competition.
Despite these challenges, Rangers remain confident. With Ilechukwu’s positive outlook and the team’s focused preparation, the NPFL champions are poised to make a strong statement in the CAF Champions League.
As the first leg draws near, all eyes are on Rangers to see how they will begin their quest for continental success.
