Enugu Rangers, the Nigerian champions, returned to continental football on Friday with a narrow 1-0 win over Sagrada Esperança of Angola in the first leg of the second preliminary round of the 2024/2025 CAF Champions League. The match, held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, saw coach Fidelis Ilechukwu’s side dominate the game but struggle to break down their Angolan opponents.
Substitute Kazeem Ogunleye came off the bench to score the only goal, securing a vital victory for the Flying Antelopes. Despite their dominance, Enugu Rangers failed to convert several chances, which will be a concern ahead of the second leg next weekend, where they need to perform better to advance.
The club has been facing goal-scoring difficulties, having netted only two goals from open play in their four matches this season. As they aim to become the first Nigerian side in four years to reach the group stage of the CAF Champions League, they must resolve these issues to succeed in the competition.
Editorial
We view Enugu Rangers’ performance in their CAF Champions League match against Sagrada Esperança as both a victory and a warning. While they managed to secure a crucial win, the game exposed a recurring issue that has plagued the team this season an inability to finish chances. Scoring just two goals from open play in four matches is not the mark of a side aiming for continental glory. This lack of efficiency in front of the goal could prove costly in the second leg and beyond if not addressed promptly.
The Flying Antelopes have a rich history in Nigerian football, and their fans will expect nothing less than success in this prestigious tournament. However, to achieve that, the team must convert their possession and chances into goals. The Angolan side will come prepared for the return leg, and Rangers cannot afford to rely solely on a slim advantage.
With talented players like Kazeem Ogunleye stepping up when needed, there is no doubt that Rangers have the potential to achieve great things this season. Yet, we must recognise that potential alone will not be enough. The team needs to deliver consistent performances in front of goal if they are to make a serious impact in this year’s competition.
We encourage the team to work on this aspect of their game, ensuring that they not only progress to the group stage but also challenge for the title that has eluded Nigerian clubs in recent years. It’s time for Enugu Rangers to reclaim their place among Africa’s elite.
Did You Know?
- Enugu Rangers last won the Nigerian league title in 2016, ending a 32 year title drought.
- The CAF Champions League was founded in 1964 and is Africa’s premier club football competition.
- Nigerian clubs have won the CAF Champions League five times, with Enyimba being the most successful, having won it twice.
- The Godswill Akpabio Stadium, where Rangers played their match, has a capacity of 30,000 and is located in Uyo, Nigeria.
- Sagrada Esperança, Rangers’ opponent, hails from Angola and has participated in several editions of the CAF Champions League, though they have yet to win the competition.
