Euromatch NPFL: I’m Not Under Pressure To Maintain Rangers’ Momentum — Ilechukwu

Rangers International technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu says he is under no pressure to sustain his team’s impressive form in the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League, ,NPFL, season, Completesports.com reports.

The ‘Working One’, as the Super Eagles assistant coach is popularly known, made this known during his post-match press conference in Awka on Sunday after Rangers secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Kwara United in their Matchday 12 encounter.

Victor Chimezie scored the decisive goal five minutes before half-time to hand the Coal City Flying Antelopes all three points.

Despite coming under intense pressure from the visitors in the second half, the nine-time league champions stood firm defensively to secure their first victory over Kwara United in two seasons.

Ilechukwu Insists He Is Under No Pressure

Asked whether he felt under pressure during the spell when Kwara United dominated proceedings, Ilechukwu dismissed the suggestion, insisting that his team’s tactical preparation and defensive strength gave him confidence.

“I’m not under pressure at all,” the Rangers tactician responded.

“I wasn’t under any pressure because we had a game plan. Besides, we’ve a good defence that can stand up against any challenge.”

Coach Delighted With Victory Over Kwara United

Ilechukwu also expressed satisfaction with the result, which marked Rangers’ second consecutive victory in four days.

The Enugu-based side had defeated Bendel Insurance 1-0 at the same venue on Wednesday in a rescheduled Matchday 9 fixture.

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The coach admitted that beating Kwara United was particularly important, considering the difficulties Rangers had encountered against the Ilorin-based side in previous seasons.

“We’re so happy with this game because we prepared for it. We’ve not beaten Kwara United in the past two seasons, and we knew it was going to be a tough one because they have a very good team, as you can see from what they showed today.

“They showed class, but thank God we’re going home with the most important thing, which is the three points,” he said.

The victory consolidated Rangers’ position at the top of the NPFL standings with 24 points from 12 matches.

They hold a three-point advantage over second-placed Bendel Insurance, while still having a game in hand.

Rallying Call To Rangers Supporters

The former MFM FC, Plateau United, Heartland and Rangers manager also appealed to the club’s supporters to remain patient and continue backing the team as the season progresses.

He acknowledged the fans’ unwavering support, particularly their willingness to travel long distances to cheer the team.

“I want the fans to understand that we love them so much. From Owerri, they were always there with us and for us. From Abeokuta to this place (Awka), they are always here as well.

“It’s not always easy to have the fans 100 per cent behind you all the time. Their support has been massive, and we’re so happy.

“We keep believing in what we can do because the league has just started. It’s about 12 games now. We will keep pushing to see what we can achieve at the end of the season,” Ilechukwu concluded.