Rangers International of Enugu, worthy NPFL champions.

As a child, I heard many stories from my father, himself a football enthusiast. I learnt about players like Aloysius Atuegbu, Christian Chukwu, Emmanuel Okala and Dan Anyiam from him. The first ride I got to Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium was in his 1975 Mitsubishi Gallant to see a Rangers game. Exactly thirty years later, Rangers International of Enugu became Nigerian champions.


Glimpses of what Rangers could do became evident when Imama Amapakabo took over mid season, 2014/ 2015. Being a former goalkeeper himself, he shored up his posts by recruiting Nana Bonsu. He equally signed Chibuzor Madu, Godwin Aguda, Camara Azeez, Ifeanyi Egwim and Chidiebere Okolie. He resigned Obinna Nwobodo after his long term injury and then Chisom Egbuchulam, an erstwhile fringe player under John Obu became his hit man. With his technical crew, he reformed the team. They added results to their already known standard of beautiful play and the fans dared to dream. A long run of beautiful results caught the eye of football administrators in the Glass House Abuja and Coach Imama was drawn into the Super Eagles technical crew.

The Governor and government of Enugu State equally increased their levels of support. The Governor, became a constant feature during home games at 'The Cathedral', as Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium is nicknamed. Fans trooped out in thousands to see Rangers play there, week in and out. Having seen the dedication and hardwork put in by every stakeholder, the God of soccer decided to reward Enugu fans with the trophy that had eluded them for thirty two years.

It was indeed a wonderful season for the Flying Antelopes, skippered by veteran Okey Odita who ran things from central defence. The hope is that as the team goes for the CAF Champions League, the momentum will be sustained.

Photo Credit: Home Touch Studios.
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