In an unbelievable encounter that saw Kano Pillars go three goals up, Rangers International of Enugu upturned the scoreline and emerged 2018 Aiteo Cup Champions at the Stephen Keshi stadium, Asaba.
Goals from Rabiu Ali, Ibrahim Alhassan and Nyima Nwagua put Pillars three goals up. As at the 75th minutes, scores remained like that and almost everyone had handed Pillars the trophy. The miracle started on the 76th minute when Kevin Itoyah scored a screamer for what was thought to be a mere consolation goal. Few minutes later, Chidera Eze scored Rangers' second. Suddenly, morale was high.
Stephen Keshi stadium split in pieces when Ajani Ibrahim threw himself into the ball to score a diving header despite the sea of legs around him. Rangers went on to win the penalty shoot out with Rabiu Ali playing high and Nana Bonsu saving Jimoh's kick.
Mention must be made of Rangers goal keeper, Femi Thomas. Femi is one of the best goalkeepers in the Nigerian football scene. He was however, nowhere to be seen on that day. Everything seemed to be going wrong for him and Gbenga Ogunbote was forced to withdraw him for Ghanian Nana Bonsu who went on to have a good game. Having had a similar comeback against Nasarawa United in the semi finals, it was no surprise that Rangers came back to win. But then, why does it always have to be a comeback? The average fan however doesn't care. A win is a win.
Worthy of note is the fact that Super Eagles Supremo Genot Rohr was alleged to have said he didn't see a player that can solve any Eagles' problem from the game. As controversial as it may be, let us reason. We have had some players from the Nigerian League go for trials in 2nd, 3rd and even 4th tier clubs in Europe and fail. That may be why national team handlers go one way on players they already have. It is not an excuse though because one or two have over time proven good enough to at least be a part of the national set up.
Congratulations to Rangers International Football Club of Enugu, 2018 Aiteo Cup Champions.
Photo Credit: ALCsports
Follow Ikenna on Twitter @ikenna005
No comments:
Post a Comment