Rangers International FC were left to rue missed chances as they played out a goalless draw against Bendel Insurance in a tense NPFL Matchday 32 fixture at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.
Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu described the result as “two points dropped,” expressing disappointment despite securing a valuable away point. “We came prepared to take all three points and played like it, but in the end, we’re only happy with the draw,” he said after the match. “We’ll keep pushing hard to finish the season strong.”
Both teams created scoring chances in a tightly contested match, but neither side found the clinical edge needed to break the deadlock. Bendel Insurance dominated possession in the first half, but Rangers held firm at the back. The visitors came closest to scoring in the 29th minute when Isaac Saviour’s thunderous free-kick missed the target by inches.
In the second half, Rangers asserted more control, with Frank Uwumiro and Godwin Obaje applying pressure in the final third. Uwumiro nearly opened the scoring early in the half, and the pair combined again in the 75th minute, only for Obaje to miscue his shot.
Teenage substitute Chimobi Igwilo brought fresh energy late in the match, troubling the Insurance defence on several occasions, but the hosts managed to keep him at bay.
Rangers now sit on 46 points after 32 games, staying in contention for a top finish as the league season winds down. Both teams will turn their attention to the President Federation Cup Round of 16, scheduled for April 16 in Lagos.
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Editorial
Fidelis Ilechukwu’s frustration is understandable. For a side like Rangers with aspirations of silverware and continental qualification, goalless draws even away from home can feel like missed opportunities. The team showed hunger, especially in the second half, but their inability to convert chances remains a lingering concern.
The positives are evident Rangers were organised, resilient, and dangerous on the break. Youngsters like Chimobi Igwilo provide promise for the future, while the attack continues to build chemistry. Yet, the absence of a killer instinct in front of goal is a problem they must address quickly if they hope to challenge for honours.
We believe the NPFL is richer with teams like Rangers playing progressive, attacking football. However, style must be matched with substance. Dropping points at this stage of the season is costly—especially when the team has the quality to walk away with more.
The President Federation Cup now looms. It offers a fresh chance at silverware and redemption. If Rangers can channel their frustration into focus, they may yet turn this campaign into one to remember.
Did You Know?
- Fidelis Ilechukwu was previously the head coach of MFM FC, where he led the club to its first-ever CAF Champions League appearance.
- Bendel Insurance were one of the founding teams of the Nigerian top division and won the league in 1973.
- Isaac Saviour, known for his powerful set-pieces, has been one of Rangers’ standout performers this season.
- The Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, venue for the match, was recently refurbished and hosted events during the 2020 National Sports Festival.
- Chimobi Igwilo, who made a late impact off the bench, was promoted from Rangers’ youth setup just this season.
