Rangers International Technical Adviser, Fidelis Ilechukwu, has emphasized that his team will treat their upcoming CAF Champions League clash against Sagrada Esperança of Angola like a cup final, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.
The match will take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, for the first leg of the second preliminary round of the 2024/2025 CAF Champions League.
As the reigning champions of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Rangers will face the Girabola League runners-up from Angola, G.D Sagrada Esperança, with a group stage ticket up for grabs.
Ilechukwu, who recently returned from his national team duties with the Super Eagles during their 2025 AFCON qualifiers, said, “We are fully prepared to give our best against a quality team from Angola with our focus on getting the win that will make our progress in the competition smooth. With all that has been happening since our league opener, I am optimistic going into this encounter. We shall approach the match like a cup final and trust God for His favour.”
Rangers advanced to this stage after overcoming Comoros Islands champions, U.S. Zilimadjou, with a 2-1 aggregate win in the first preliminary round. However, the Angolan side poses a significant challenge, having defeated their first-round opponents from Seychelles with an overwhelming 4-0 aggregate.
The Angolan club's strong form will be a hurdle, but Ilechukwu and his team are determined to rise to the occasion.
With a ticket to the group stage at stake, Rangers will look to capitalize on their home advantage and deliver a performance worthy of advancing in Africa’s premier club competition.
Oluwayemi Omolagba