Nigeria Leagues
CAFCC: Ilechukwu criticizes Rangers’ display despite win Over Sagrada Esperança
By Wale Mustapha
Enugu Rangers’ Technical Adviser, Fidelis Ilechukwu, expressed disappointment with his team’s performance following their narrow 1-0 victory over Angolan side Sagrada Esperança in the CAF Confederation Cup on Friday.
Despite securing a crucial win, Ilechukwu was critical of his players’ display, particularly their inability to capitalize on numerous opportunities.
The match, held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, saw Rangers struggle to break down their opponents until the 78th minute, when substitute Ogunleye Kazeem scored the decisive goal.
The game, which was largely dominated by the Flying Antelopes, was marred by missed chances and a lack of incisiveness in the final third.
Sagrada Esperança, relying on a counter-attacking strategy, came close to equalizing late in the game. Felisberto Sebastiao was presented with a golden opportunity to level the score but was thwarted by a crucial save from Rangers’ goalkeeper Japhet Opubo.
Ilechukwu, while relieved to secure the win, was critical of his team’s performance. “It was a game we planned very well but I am a bit disappointed with how the players approached the match from the beginning,” Ilechukwu said.
“We threw away many chances but we hope not to put the players under more pressure. We need to encourage them because this game is delicately poised.”
Looking ahead to the second leg, which will be played at the de Novembro Stadium in Luanda, Angola, Ilechukwu emphasized the need for improved performance.
“We are happy to have won with a solitary goal, but we need to get our acts right in Luanda and ensure we score. Anything is possible. The visitors are a good side and they tried to neutralize us in the second half. They have players who can cause us problems, but we also have what it takes to wrap up the contest,” he added.
Rangers will face Sagrada Esperança next Sunday in what promises to be a decisive second leg encounter. The outcome will determine who advances further in the CAF Confederation Cup.
