CAFCL: Rangers Intl FC’s Mixed First Leg Performance Raises Concerns for Coach Ilechukwu Ahead of Second Leg

The first leg of the preliminary round in the Confederation of African Football Champions League (CAFCL) saw Rangers International FC of Nigeria secure a narrow 1-0 victory over AS Zilimandjou of Comoros. Despite this positive result, Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has voiced concerns over his team's performance, especially the lackluster display in the second half of the match.

Played at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, the game began with a promising note for Rangers. The team displayed a high level of urgency and dominance in the first half, culminating in a well-executed goal by Uwumiro Frank in the 22nd minute. This goal, the only one of the match, put Rangers ahead as the first half ended with a 1-0 lead.

However, the second half told a different story. The momentum that Rangers had built up in the first half did not carry over after the break. AS Zilimandjou adjusted their strategy and managed to balance the game, posing several threats to Rangers’ goal. The Comoros side's improved performance in the latter half meant that Rangers had to dig in defensively to maintain their slim advantage.

In his post-match commentary, Coach Ilechukwu expressed his dissatisfaction with the team’s performance in the second half. He reflected on the missed opportunities, noting that Rangers could have extended their lead before the break, which might have prevented AS Zilimandjou from mounting a comeback. “It was a game we had control over in the first stanza and could have scored more goals that would have killed any fight back from our opponent,” Ilechukwu said. “We lowered our guard in the second stanza and they came out to attack, but we stood out to see off the encounter.”

Despite the win, the performance has raised concerns for Ilechukwu as he looks to address the team's shortcomings before the second leg. The coach is determined to rectify the issues observed and is confident about his team's prospects. “We go back to the drawing board to prepare very well for the return leg and we are positive going forward,” he assured.

The second leg of this preliminary encounter is scheduled to take place on Friday, August 23, 2024. Interestingly, the match will also be held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) did not approve AS Zilimandjou’s home ground in Comoros for the fixture, making Uyo the venue for both legs, with Rangers serving as the home team for the return leg.

As the teams prepare for the decisive second leg, all eyes will be on how Rangers adjust their tactics and whether they can build on their narrow first-leg advantage to secure a spot in the next round of the CAF Champions League.