CAF CL: ‘We shall approach Sagrada match as Cup final’ – Fidelis Ilechukwu

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Fidelis Ilechukwu, the head coach of Rangers International, is eagerly anticipating their upcoming clash with Sagrada Esperança of Angola in the first leg of the 2024/2025 CAF Champions League Second Preliminary Round.

The match is set to take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on Friday.

Following their successful passage through the previous round, where they overcame US Zilimadjou of Comoros Island with a 2-1 aggregate score, Ilechukwu is confident in his team’s preparation.

He acknowledges the challenge posed by Sagrada Esperança but remains focused on securing a win to ease their progression in the competition.

“We are fully prepared to give our best against a quality team from Angola, with our focus on getting the win that will make our progress in the competition smooth,” Ilechukwu said.

“Despite the busy start to our NPFL season, I am optimistic going into this encounter.”

Ilechukwu, who was recently involved in national duties with the senior men’s national team during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers, returns with fresh insight.

He contributed to the Super Eagles’ victories over Benin Republic and their draw against Rwanda, alongside assistant coaches Augustine Eguavoen and Daniel Ogunmodede.

The Rangers coach intends to approach the match with a cup final mentality, hoping for divine favor and a positive outcome to boost their campaign in the CAF Champions League.