Enugu Rangers coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has remained defiant following his team’s 2-0 home loss to relegation-threatened Heartland FC on NPFL Matchday 33, insisting the Flying Antelopes are still in the race for a continental ticket.
Suraju Lawal and Isaac Nassy struck in the 21st and 48th minutes, condemning Rangers to a shock defeat at the Awka City Stadium. The loss leaves Rangers in 8th place with 46 points and five games to go.
Reacting to the result, Ilechukwu admitted the team’s disappointment.
“We’re not happy. Everyone is sad. It's a painful loss, especially in front of our fans. But we must pick ourselves up quickly ahead of the FA Cup and remaining league matches.”
The gaffer pointed to a mounting injury crisis as a key factor behind the team’s dip in form.
“We’ve lost too many key players. Last season, our midfielders contributed 40% of our goals. Now, most of them are injured or unavailable. It’s difficult when replacements can’t meet expectations.”
Addressing rumors that Rangers deliberately lost to help his former side Heartland avoid relegation, Ilechukwu firmly denied any wrongdoing.
“Those rumors are fake. I’ve coached Heartland before, and they know the kind of coach I am. I’d never be involved in such a thing.”
Despite the setback, the coach remains optimistic about a top finish.
“We have a 100% chance of qualifying for continental football. We trained hard, but injuries and fatigue held us back. Still, we’ll keep pushing in the last five games.”
On his future with Rangers, Ilechukwu, whose contract runs out at the end of the season, said his focus remains on finishing the campaign strong.
“My future depends on the remaining games. After that, I’ll sit down with the management and decide. Right now, the priority is to get the team back on track.”
Rangers face a crucial final stretch as they attempt to salvage their season and return to the continental stage.
0 Comments