NPFL

EXCLUSIVE! Rangers International plan potential NPFL trophy parade

By Nsidibe Akpan

Posted on June 15, 2024

Photo credit: The Athletic Images

Rangers International have confirmed plans for a potential Nigeria Premier League Football (NPFL) trophy parade along the major streets of Enugu if the club secures the title this season.

With just two matches remaining in the NPFL season, Rangers can clinch the championship on Sunday by defeating Bendel Insurance at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, provided second-placed Remo Stars fail to win away against Sunshine Stars in Akure.

Currently leading the table with 64 points, Rangers could potentially finish the season with 70 points if they win their remaining two matches, surpassing their 2016 title-winning tally of 63 points.

Fidelis Ilechukwu can win his first NPFL title in his first season with Rangers International (Image credit: The Athletic Images)

A reliable source close to the club exclusively told The Athletic NG that preparations for a potential trophy parade have already commenced. This initiative aims to prevent a repeat of the 2016 celebration debacle, when Rangers’ victory parade drew widespread criticism due to poor organisation.

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The team ended their long wait for the championship by defeating El Kanemi Warriors 4-0 on the final day of the league season. Despite initially announcing plans to commemorate their 32-year wait for the championship under Kennedy Boboye’s leadership, the club faced backlash after parading through Enugu’s main streets in a worn-out open truck.

The celebrations which involved parading through major roads was marred by criticism from fans who found the manner of celebration unconventional.

Rangers International 2016 NPFL trophy parade

In response to the criticism, the club issued an apology via their social media platforms, stating, “We sincerely apologise for the embarrassment caused during yesterday’s victory parade. God bless you all.”

Under the new leadership of General Manager Barr. Amobi Ezeaku, Rangers have emerged as a formidable force in the NPFL, achieving success both on and off the field.

The club has reawakened the love and support of the people of Enugu State, as reflected in increased engagement on social media and matchday attendance. This was evident in last weekend’s Oriental Derby against Enyimba, where more than 32,000 tickets were sold, setting a record-breaking crowd at the Cathedral.