Rangers International technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu has declared the Enugu side genuine contenders for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title following their 2–0 victory over Kano Pillars at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.
The Matchday 24 win marked a successful return to the touchline for Ilechukwu, who recently served on the Super Eagles’ coaching crew at AFCON 2025 in Morocco under head coach Eric Chelle. Rangers dominated large spells of the encounter, creating numerous chances despite failing to fully convert their opportunities.
“I think it’s a big game. Both teams did their best to tackle and win. We created chances, but we missed a lot of them,” Ilechukwu said after the match.
The result lifted Rangers to third place on the NPFL table with 39 points, strengthening their push at the top end of the standings.
Ilechukwu brushed aside external pressure, insisting the club’s title ambition is built on a clear structure and long-term plan.
“Rangers are a title contender this season. The most important thing is that we have a plan and a structure, and that structure cannot change,” he stated.
The coach explained that squad rotation affected Rangers’ attacking rhythm, with some regular starters rested to manage fatigue.
“I introduced some new players because some are tired. It might be difficult, but we must find balance in the team. With time, the team will settle,” he added.
Rangers were without league top scorer Godwin Obaje, who missed the game due to suspension after picking up his fifth yellow card of the season, while Igwilo Chimobi was also unavailable because of travel commitments.
“Losing Obaje was very difficult for me,” Ilechukwu admitted. “But we must always find solutions.”
Ilechukwu also addressed a brief touchline incident involving Kano Pillars coach Mohammed Babaganaru, dismissing any suggestion of tension between both men.
He explained that the situation arose from a misunderstanding while he was speaking to the fourth official.
“He’s my father, my senior, my mentor. He thought I was talking to him while I was actually talking to the fourth official. When I explained, he said there was no problem,” he said.
The Rangers coach stressed that he holds Babaganaru in high regard and would never show disrespect.
“I can’t insult him. As a young coach, insulting him means I have no respect. I thank God that he understands,” he added.
The win was Ilechukwu’s first victory over Kano Pillars as Rangers coach after losing the previous three meetings, although he played down any notion of revenge.
“We didn’t do anything different because we are not here for revenge. We want to win games. The ones we don’t win, we go home and work hard,” he said.
Kano Pillars remain in the relegation zone, sitting 18th on the table with 25 points, while Rangers will next face Abia Warriors in the Oriental Derby as they continue their title push in the NPFL.
