Rangers International delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over visiting Bayelsa United F.C. in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Sunday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu. The match was attended by Nigerian music star Flavour, Ijele 1 of Africa, adding a touch of celebrity glamour to the event.
Rangers never allowed Bayelsa United to find their footing. The attacking duo of Okorie Chiedozie and Godwin Obaje received ample support from a well-coordinated midfield, keeping the visitors constantly on the defensive.
Despite Rangers’ dominance, Bayelsa United’s defence, particularly goalkeeper Elkanah Godgift, put up a strong resistance, making several crucial saves. However, the breakthrough came just before halftime.
In the 41st minute, Godwin Obaje scored the opener, assisted by Okorie Chiedozie, who delivered a precise cross after a brilliant setup by Isaac Saviour. This goal, Obaje’s 10th of the season, ignited celebrations among the home fans.
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The second half saw Rangers intensify their assault. In quick succession, they scored two more goals in the 66th and 68th minutes. Obaje netted his second of the match and 11th of the season after receiving a cross-field pass from Isaac Saviour, navigating through several tackles to score. Okorie Chiedozie then sealed the victory with a goal assisted by substitute Chidiebere Nwobodo.
Guess who came out to support @Rangers_Intl?
The big baller, @2niteflavour, was at today’s home game at the Cathedral against Bayelsa United FC to cheer the team on to victory!
With a stellar performance, Enugu Rangers secured all 3 points to maintain their top position on the… pic.twitter.com/PiYMyJhGgO
— Afrinvest (@Afrinvest) May 26, 2024
This emphatic win allowed Rangers to maintain their top position in the league, boasting 60 points from 33 matches with a record of 18 wins, 6 draws, and 9 losses. They have scored 49 goals and conceded 31. Defending champions Enyimba trail closely with 56 points from the same number of matches.
Speaking after the game, coach Fidelis Ilechukwu praised his team’s performance. “It was a good game with a good result from my boys,” he said.
“It would have been more embarrassing for our opponent had we been able to convert more chances, but we will keep working until the end of the season to achieve our targets. Bayelsa United was challenging, but we came prepared. We shall approach our next matches like cup finals as the season gets tougher each week.”
Rangers will face Sporting Lagos next at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, on June 2, 2024.
