Super Eagles coach makes bold Rangers claim ahead of CAF Champions League clash
Retold by Oddsrama · 1 September 2026
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Rangers International's title defence got off to a rocky start when they drew 1-1 with Katsina United on Sunday, courtesy of a 97th-minute leveller that rescued what could have been an embarrassing opening day. The champions created chances but couldn't finish them until a goalkeeper howler gifted them an unlikely point. For bettors following the NPFL's opening week, it was a reminder that even the favourites can stumble — and that late drama can destroy even the most confident predictions.
But Rangers boss Fidelis Ilechukwu, who also serves as a Super Eagles assistant, isn't dwelling on the domestic slip. His squad now turns attention to continental football, facing Benin's AS Sobemap in the CAF Champions League first preliminary round on September 6th at the MKO Abiola Stadium. Ilechukwu believes the European-style challenge will bring his team back to life. He admitted the Katsina result stung — it wasn't the three points Rangers planned for — but insisted the squad has the character to bounce back. The Rangers gaffer even suggested his men might finally put away the goals they wasted against Katsina when they step up in class.
Sobemap aren't pushovers; they're Benin's reigning champions and will arrive with ambitions of their own. However, Rangers' pedigree in continental competition and experience should give them the edge in this tie. Club general manager Amobi Ezeaku echoed the message: this is Rangers representing Nigeria on the continental stage, and supporters need to get behind them. The stakes are clear — winners advance toward the group stage, and Rangers have the quality to handle it. Betting-wise, home advantage and that extra European know-how could make the Eagles worth backing against a solid but less-tested opponent.
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