When Rangers appointed Fidelis Ilechukwu as their new coach, the message was clear: return the club to its rightful place at the summit of Nigerian football.
Since their 2016 triumph in the Nigeria Professional Football League, Rangers had become a pale shadow of their former selves, languishing in mid-table obscurity and flirting with relegation – a far cry from the glory days the passionate fans craved.
The Rangers hierarchy, led by Amobi Ezeaku, took a bold step by placing their trust in the young and ambitious Ilechukwu.
The coach, nicknamed ‘Camara', had already established his reputation, excelling at his previous clubs – the defunct Mountain of Fire and Miracles, Heartland, and Plateau United.
In Jos, he masterfully guided his Plateau United side to continental competition before their unfortunate exit at the hands of Al Ahli Benghazi in the Confederations Cup.
Rangers were impressed by Ilechukwu's philosophy and his arrival has paid dividends.
The Flying Antelopes currently perch proudly atop the NPFL table, meticulously climbing to the peak with a string of eye-catching performances and crucial away victories.
Their determination to reclaim the throne is evident in their impressive tally of three away wins so far this season – against Niger Tornadoes, Kano Pillars, and Heartland.
Top of the table for the Antelopes
Ilechukwu's attacking style of play has ignited the squad.
Godwin Obaje has flourished in attack, expertly converting the ammunition supplied by the ever-reliable Kalu Nweke and Kazeem Ogunleye, arguably the league's most dominant midfielder this season.
The former MFM coach revealed his plan from the outset – to not only improve upon last season's performance but also to entertain the fans at the Cathedral with an exciting brand of football.
“As a coach, I am very happy with the team,” Ilechukwu beamed. Management and I sat down with the team, determined to rebuild a strong side, a team that would defend the Rangers image.”
“We brainstormed and developed a solid structure, one that would keep the team in a comfortable position on the table. This season, we're focusing on potentially challenging for a trophy.
We're all delighted, not just me, but the management, the players, everyone – not only because we're top of the table, but because the team has been playing well consistently, demonstrating tactical and technical prowess in both attack and defense.”
Rangers' resurgence hasn't been without its challenges.
They endured a shaky start to the season, but recently, they've displayed remarkable resilience, edging past established teams like Remo Stars, Lobi Stars, and Enyimba.
No title talk for Rangers yet – Ilechukwu
Despite their current position, Ilechukwu is cautious about prematurely declaring a title charge. He believes his team is still under construction, and only when he's satisfied with the tactical foundation will he unleash a full-fledged assault on the NPFL crown.
For now, his focus remains on maintaining their current form and securing positive results.
“We may have a good points tally – 48 points for a 100% record from the last few games – but we can't get complacent considering the unpredictable nature of the NPFL,” Ilechukwu told Afrik-foot.com.
“We've seen teams leading the table early on now struggling at the bottom or mid-table. That's the beauty of football.
My goal is to solidify this Rangers team by weeks 30-31, ensuring we can't drop to the middle of the table. Once we achieve that structural stability, then we can truly say we've done our job.”
Ilechukwu also praised his players for their unwavering commitment to his philosophy since the beginning of the season.
High praise for Godwin Obaje
While commending his players, he spoke about Godwin Obaje's resurgence by commending the striker's return to form after a quiet spell.
With seven goals to his name, Obaje has spearheaded the Rangers attack, and Ilechukwu is confident there's more to come from the prolific forward.
“Godwin Obaje is a top-class player, a former NPFL top scorer,” Ilechukwu declared enthusiastically.
“He's a player with charisma and character, the kind of quality any coach would love to have in their squad.
However, he also requires a patient approach to unlock his full potential. Every striker has unique strengths, weaknesses, and preferred playing styles.
It's crucial to understand their advantages and how to communicate effectively to get the best out of them. While he's not at his peak right now, I have complete faith that he'll reach the heights his talent deserves by the end of the season.”
With 27 games played, Rangers lead the NPFL log with 48 points, a narrow one-point lead over their closest challengers, Lobi Stars.
They'll face Sunshine Stars at the Cathedral on Matchday 28.
