Ben Ezechime, Enugu
Rangers International FC of Enugu on Wednesday defeated Heartland FC of Owerri 5-3 on penalties to qualify for the round of 16 of the 2025 President’s Federation cup, formerly known as the challenge cup.
The rain soaked encounter played at a packed Awka City Stadium, Anambra State, ended 1-1 after regulation time, thereby forcing a nerve-wracking penalty shootout that saw the ‘Flying Antelopes’ edge out the Naze Warriors 5-3.
The match started with Rangers dominating possession, but Heartland proved resilient, frustrating the Coal City side’s attacking forays.
However, against the run of play, Heartland stunned the Enugu side in the 67th minute, capitalising on a swift counter-attack to break the deadlock.
Rangers responded swiftly, and in the 73rd minute, Isaac Saviour took a free kick on the edge of the box, unleashing a thunderous strike that left the Heartland goalkeeper rooted to the spot, leveling the score and sending the stadium into a frenzy.
The match ended in a 1-1 draw at the regulation time, hence the penalty shootout.
In the ensuing shootout, Isaac Saviour, Godwin Obaje, Evans Ogbonda, Bashir Usman, and Ikenna Stephen all converted their spot kicks, while Heartland, unfortunately, faltered, missing one of their four attempts.
The victory sparked jubilant scenes among the Rangers supporters, who celebrated their team’s resilience and determination.
In a post-match interview, Rangers Coach, Ekeh Ekenedilichukwu praised his team’s performance, acknowledging the intensity of the derby.
“It was a tough match as expected, but we gave our best to emerge victorious over our neighbours, Heartland.
“We keep working on the team as our target remains going as far as winning the trophy for the 7th time,” Ekenedilichukwu said.
Rangers now await their next opponent, Bendel Insurance FC of Benin City in the round of 16.
The ‘Flying Antelopes’ will be hoping to carry their momentum forward as they chase their ambition of lifting the prestigious Federation Cup trophy.
