Despite losing the first game of the 2023 NPFL to Abia Warriors
By Rasheed Adewuyi
Comrade Okolie Norbert, Rangers International FC of Enugu media officer, says the club’s target this season is to qualify for any of the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) competitions next year.
The Flying Antelopes lost their 2022/23 opening league match 0-2 at home to Abia Warriors on Sunday.
In a chat with Sports Joust, Norbert disclosed that Rangers would focus on qualifying from group B in the abridged league and play in the Super six, where the CAF Champions League and Confederation cup representatives will emerge.
He added: “The management is trying to get Rangers back to the continental scene, and that’s why we approved 95 percent of the players the coaches requested. They’re all fresh legs.”
Norbert insisted that the 2-0 defeat to Abia Warriors was a shock to the entire team and fans, but the club will not relent in its efforts to pick a continental ticket at the end of the season.
He also advised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to instruct all national teams coaches to cultivate the habit of inviting local players for international assignments to help develop, build confidence and expose local talents.
Norbert said: “Europe-based players have taken over our national teams. I’ve been following the Nigerian league for over 30 years. Good players in our society can break into the Super Eagles if given a chance.”
Lobi Stars FC will host Rangers tomorrow at the Aper Aku Stadium, Makurdi. Rangers came 5th last season, while Lobi Stars placed 6th on the table.
