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Ilechukwu Backs Rangers to Beat Sobemap After CAF Champions League Draw

Posted : 08 September 2026

Rangers International head coach and Super Eagles assistant coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has backed the Nigerian champions to defeat AS Sobemap in the second leg of their CAF Champions League first-round tie. His confidence comes after Rangers were held to a 1-1 draw in the opening leg in Abeokuta on Sunday.

Rangers took the lead through Chidozie Iwundu in the 32nd minute at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena. Sobemap responded shortly after half-time, leaving the Nigerian champions unable to secure a home victory despite creating several opportunities.

The draw means Rangers must now avoid defeat in the return fixture if they are to keep their Champions League campaign alive. The second leg is scheduled for September 11 in Benin Republic, with the winner progressing to the next stage.

Ilechukwu refused to blame the officials for the missed opportunity. Instead, the Rangers coach admitted that his players were responsible for failing to convert their chances.

He said the team must improve its finishing because creating opportunities will mean little if Rangers cannot turn them into goals. He also described the referee's performance as generally fair despite a minor mistake in the first half.

The attacking problem has become an early concern for the reigning NPFL champions. Rangers have scored only two goals across their opening two competitive matches of the new season after also drawing 1-1 with Katsina United in their opening league fixture.

Ilechukwu, however, believes Rangers can find a solution in the return leg. He was particularly confident that his side would win if Sobemap adopt the same defensive approach used in Abeokuta.

“If Sobemap sit deep like this in the second leg, we're going to win,” Ilechukwu said.

The coach also confirmed that Rangers will maintain their attacking mentality in the return fixture. He acknowledged that some important players are unavailable because of injuries but insisted that the absences cannot be used as an excuse.

The tie remains evenly poised at 1-1. Rangers will need a stronger attacking display in Benin Republic to secure qualification and avoid an early exit from Africa's premier club competition.

 

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