Enugu Rangers’ head coach, Fidelis Ilechukwu, has thrown his weight behind Remo Stars as the team to beat this season in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The gaffer, known for his straightforward approach, pointed to the Sky Blue Stars as frontrunners for the 2024-25 NPFL title, Footballrover reports.
Despite being reigning champions, Ilechukwu downplayed Rangers’ chances of retaining the crown, admitting they are far from their best.
The Coal City side’s season began on shaky ground with a lacklustre 0-0 draw against El-Kanemi Warriors, followed by a disappointing exit from the CAF Champions League after losing 3-2 on aggregate to Angola’s Sagrada Esperança.
Rangers struggling to regain form
Although Rangers managed to regain some confidence with a narrow 1-0 victory over NPFL newcomers Ikorodu City, Ilechukwu believes his side is still far from challenging for the top spot.
Speaking after the win in Lagos, the tactician acknowledged that his team is more likely to “sit on the fence” this season and monitor the competition closely.
Ilechukwu cited Remo Stars, Kano Pillars, Enyimba, and Shooting Stars as the teams currently in better form and positioned ahead of Rangers, especially with their early struggles.
“I think the team at the top of the NPFL summit (Remo Stars are at the top with nine points) is the strongest this season,” Ilechukwu stated.
Tough test ahead for Rangers
However, the Flying Antelopes will be facing a tough test next as they prepare to meet Remo Stars in a matchday four clash at the Remo Stars Stadium this Sunday.
Up Next: A day with Remo Stars at Ikenne, last year's runners up. #REMRAN #NPFL25#GloryDays #NeverSayDie pic.twitter.com/Cw66gkqJKH
— Rangers International FC (@Rangers_Intl) September 27, 2024
All eyes will be on the encounter to see if Ilechukwu’s cautious predictions hold true.
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