Rangers International Chief Coach Ekeh Ekenedilichukwu says his side are “still building and boastful” after a composed 2–0 win over Abia Warriors in the rescheduled NPFL Oriental Derby at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.
Goals from Chidozie Iwundu and Godwin Obaje secured victory for the Flying Antelopes, who dominated the first half and held firm after the break to earn their first two-goal home win in the derby since 2020.
Speaking after the game, Ekeh praised his players’ focus and execution of the game plan.
“I’m very happy, and the whole team is very happy,” he said. “This win is very important to us. We want to make our fans happy, and this game has come and gone.”
Ekeh revealed that he reminded his players of their early struggles in the campaign and challenged them to climb back up the table.
“When we went into the dressing room last week, we found ourselves around 17th,” he explained. “We needed to make sure we got back to where we belong. I’m happy the boys listened and followed the instructions from the coaches. They went out there and did perfectly well.”
Rangers Chief Coach Ekeh. Photo Credit: Rangers/X
Despite the morale-boosting victory, the Rangers boss insisted his side will remain humble as they continue to grow into the season.
“We’re not perfect, we’re still building. We’re not boastful of any kind. We just thank God for the effort the boys have put in so far,” Ekeh said.
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Looking ahead to their next fixture away to Nasarawa United, the coach kept his cards close.
“When we get to the bridge, we’ll plan how to cross it,” he added with a smile.
Evans Ogbonda. Photo Credit: Rangers/X
Ekeh also reserved special praise for Evans Ogbonda, who provided both assists in the win.
“He’s a very important player, if he wasn’t, he wouldn’t be in the lineup,” he said. “Evans is performing at his peak and showing why he came to Rangers. He’s a big asset to the team.”
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The win lifts Rangers into fifth place on the NPFL table ahead of their Matchday 8 trip to Lafia to face league leaders Nasarawa United.
