Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association, Chikelue Iloenyosi, has hailed Rangers International for their resilient 2-0 win over Algerian champions MC Alger in the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round.
Iloenyosi said the result underlined the character and fighting spirit of the Flying Antelopes, who secured victory despite playing with ten men for a large part of the game.
He praised the players and technical crew for their discipline and courage, adding that the late strikes from Kenneth Igboke and James Emo were reward for their perseverance.
The Anambra FA boss noted that the performance showed Nigerian clubs can hold their own against top continental opposition.
“This is a commendable victory for Rangers and Nigerian football. To beat a strong team like MC Alger 2-0 in such difficult circumstances shows great character and determination,” Iloenyosi said.
“I congratulate the players, coaches, management and fans. They have made Enugu and Nigeria proud.”
He however urged the Enugu side to stay focused ahead of the return leg in Algeria, stressing that the job was far from done.
“The team must remain humble and determined. With the same spirit and togetherness, they can finish the job and qualify for the group stage,” he added.
Iloenyosi expressed optimism that the win would spur other Nigerian clubs to aim higher on the continent.
