Head coach of Rangers International F.C., Fidelis Ilechukwu, has admitted that Nigeria Premier Football League clubs will continue struggling in continental competitions unless major improvements are made.
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Speaking on the performance of Nigerian clubs in African competitions, Ilechukwu stressed that there is still a huge gap between NPFL teams and some of their continental rivals.
“There is still a lot of work to be done,” Ilechukwu said.
According to the Rangers coach, the level of competition and intensity within the domestic league is currently not strong enough to adequately prepare teams for continental football.
“The way teams play in the league is not competitive enough for Africa,” he implied.
Ilechukwu also lamented the constant departure of top talents from the Nigerian league, insisting it weakens clubs significantly.
“We keep losing our best players regularly,” he noted.
The assistant coach of the Super Eagles stressed that retaining quality players remains crucial if Nigerian clubs hope to compete effectively on the continent.
“It becomes difficult to compete when your best players leave constantly,” he added.
Nigerian clubs have struggled in recent years to make deep runs in CAF competitions despite the country’s rich football history.
“The gap between Nigerian clubs and some African rivals is becoming more noticeable,” many football observers believe.
Ilechukwu believes structural improvements and better investment are necessary to revive the competitiveness of NPFL teams internationally.
“More support and development are needed across the league,” supporters continue to say.
For Fidelis Ilechukwu, the message is clear.
NPFL clubs still face major challenges in Africa.
Player retention and competitiveness must improve.
And Nigerian football needs stronger structures to compete consistently at continental level.
Because success in African club football requires quality, stability, investment, and strong domestic competition.
