Enugu Rangers secured a 1-0 victory against US Zilimadjou of Comoros in the first leg of their CAF Champions League preliminary round clash, thanks to a 22nd minute header from Frank Uwumiro. The match took place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Sunday, and despite the win, coach Fidelis Ilechukwu admitted the team has more work to do ahead of the return leg on Friday.
Rangers captain Ugwueze Chinemerem echoed the coach’s sentiments, stating that while the game didn’t go as planned, the win was crucial. He expressed confidence that the team is in a strong position to advance to the next round, but emphasized the importance of remaining focused.
Editorial
We believe Enugu Rangers’ 1-0 win over US Zilimadjou in the first leg of their CAF Champions League tie is a positive result, but the narrow margin suggests there is still work to be done. While Frank Uwumiro’s early goal gave the Rangers the lead, the team’s failure to extend that lead in the first half leaves room for improvement. Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu’s acknowledgement of missed chances and the need for better focus in the second half highlights the importance of maintaining momentum throughout the entire game.
Ilechukwu acknowledged that Rangers controlled the first half and created several chances to extend their lead, but they were unable to capitalize on them. He also noted that they let their guard down in the second half, allowing Zilimadjou to attack more. The coach emphasized the need to prepare thoroughly for the second leg.
With the return leg coming up, Rangers will need to be more clinical in front of goal and ensure that they don’t allow the opposition to grow into the game, especially as they prepare to face Zilimadjou again on Friday. The victory provides a foundation, but the team must remain disciplined to secure their place in the next round.
Did You Know?
- Enugu Rangers are one of Nigeria’s most successful football clubs, having won multiple domestic league titles.
- The CAF Champions League is the most prestigious club competition in African football, and progressing in this tournament would be a major achievement for Rangers.
- Frank Uwumiro’s header was the only goal of the game, and it came from a well delivered corner by Kenechukwu Agu.
- Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has been with Rangers since 2023 and has been instrumental in guiding the team in continental competitions.
- Rangers’ next match against US Zilimadjou will take place at the same venue, giving the Nigerian team a home advantage once again.
