Rangers Int’l coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has stated that his team will not underestimate Union Sportive Zilimadjou of Comoros in the CAF Champions League first preliminary round.
The match is scheduled for August 16, 17, or 18, 2024, at the 14,000-capacity Baumer Stadium, with the return leg taking place in Nigeria a week later.
Ilechukwu emphasized that Rangers will approach the encounter with seriousness, respecting their opponent while acknowledging that his team is still a work in progress.
READ MORE: Shooting Stars provide update on player transfers
He expressed his desire to make an impact in the continental championship while recognizing the need for thorough preparations.
“No team is a small team in the continent anymore,” Ilechukwu said. “We respect our opponent in the Total Energies CAF Champions League 2024/2025 preliminary round, US Zilimadjou of Comoros. We shall give our preparations ahead of the encounter all the attention it deserves.”
While confident in his team’s abilities, Ilechukwu remains focused on building a strong squad capable of competing at the highest level. “Don’t forget that we are still building this team, and we must be up and doing to ensure that we make an impact in the continental championship.”
Fidelis Ilechukwu guided Rangers Int’l of Enugu their 8th undisputed record breaking Nigeria Premier Football League title during the just concluded 2023/2024 NPFL season with 70 points, five points above second placed Remo Stars who finished the season with 65 points.
The team will be banking on their form last season to impress in the continent and probably come back home with the trophy.
The club has also done a number of business in the summer transfer market to bolster their squad and also strengthen key positions ahead of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League season. The team also finished with the most away wins and clean sheets, a glimpse of the quality and stuff of Ilechukwu and the entire team, a form they will hopefully replicate in the next season.
