Rangers Return to Cathedral Dominance, Intensify Kano Pillars’ Relegation Woes

Posted : 02 February 2026

Rangers International FC bolstered their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title credentials with a composed 2–0 victory over Kano Pillars at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu — famously known as The Cathedral — on Matchday 24 of the 2025/2026 season.

The win not only earned the Flying Antelopes three valuable points but also intensified Kano Pillars’ struggles at the bottom of the table. Rangers moved into third place with 39 points, keeping them firmly within reach of the league summit.

The match marked a notable return for Technical Adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu, who was back on the touchline after serving with the Super Eagles coaching crew at AFCON 2025 in Morocco under head coach Eric Chelle.

Despite the 2–0 scoreline, Rangers displayed a mix of dominance and inefficiency. The Enugu side controlled large portions of the match, creating multiple scoring chances but failing to convert several opportunities. “I think it’s a big game. Both teams did their best to tackle and win. We created chances, but we missed a lot of them,” Ilechukwu admitted after the game.

Squad rotation played a crucial role in maintaining Rangers’ attacking rhythm. With fatigue affecting several regular starters, Ilechukwu opted to introduce fresh players. “I introduced some new players because some are tired. It might be difficult, but we must find balance in the team. With time, the team will settle,” he explained.

Rangers were without league top scorer Godwin Obaje, who was suspended after accumulating five yellow cards, while Igwilo Chimobi missed the match due to travel commitments. “Losing Obaje was very difficult for me. But we must always find solutions,” the coach said.

The absence of key figures tested Rangers’ depth, but the squad still produced enough quality to see off a struggling Pillars side. A brief moment on the touchline between Ilechukwu and Kano Pillars coach Mohammed Babaganaru drew attention, but the Rangers boss clarified that it was a misunderstanding. “He’s my father, my senior, my mentor. He thought I was talking to him while I was addressing the fourth official. When I explained, he said there was no problem,” Ilechukwu noted, emphasizing his respect for Babaganaru.

Interestingly, this was Ilechukwu’s first victory over Kano Pillars since taking charge of Rangers, having lost the previous three encounters. However, he dismissed any narrative of revenge. “We didn’t do anything different because we are not here for revenge. We want to win games. The ones we don’t win, we go home and work hard,” he said.

Looking ahead, Ilechukwu emphasized the importance of structure and planning, underscoring Rangers’ focus on the title. “Rangers are a title contender this season. The most important thing is that we have a plan and a structure, and that structure cannot change,” he stated confidently.

While Rangers prepare for their next Oriental Derby clash against Abia Warriors with renewed belief, Kano Pillars remain in 18th place with 25 points, their relegation concerns deepening. At The Cathedral, Rangers didn’t just win — they sent a clear message that their sights are firmly set on the NPFL crown.

Rangers Return to Cathedral Dominance, Intensify Kano Pillars’ Relegation Woes

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics