Rangers’ technical adviser, Fidelis Ilechukwu, has expressed optimism about his team’s chances in the second leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie against Sagrada Esperanca in Angola. The Nigerian side secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg, played in Uyo on Friday, September 13.
After the match, Ilechukwu acknowledged the strengths of their Angolan opponents but remained confident that Rangers could seal the tie in Luanda. He emphasized the importance of converting scoring chances and maintaining a positive atmosphere in the team as they prepare for the decisive game.
Reflecting on the first leg, Ilechukwu admitted that the team’s approach to the game could have been better, particularly in the early stages. Despite missed opportunities, he was pleased with the result and focused on encouraging his players ahead of the return fixture.
“We know they have players that can cause us problems, but we also have what it takes to finish the contest in Angola,” Ilechukwu said. “We had a solid game plan, but I was a bit disappointed with how we started. We wasted many chances, but we won’t put the players under more pressure. We need to support them because this tie is delicately balanced.”
Ilechukwu remains hopeful that his team will perform better in the return leg, scheduled for Sunday, September 22, at the 11 de Novembro Stadium in Luanda.
