Euromatch NPFL: Rangers Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu Delighted After Late Equaliser Against Katsina United

Rangers International head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has expressed his satisfaction after his side salvaged a point in their 1-1 draw against Katsina United in their opening match of the 2026/27 Euromatch Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.

The defending champions looked set to suffer defeat at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta after Katsina United took the lead, but Rangers found a late equaliser to secure a share of the points.

Speaking after the match, Ilechukwu admitted that the result was not what his team had prepared for but described the late goal as a positive outcome.

“I am not happy, but a game like this—you got something in the dying minutes; it looks like three points, inasmuch as this is not what the team prepared for. We will go back home and start preparing for our next game,” he said.

Ilechukwu also thanked the supporters at the MKO Abiola Stadium for their backing throughout the game.

“I want to first thank the fans in Abeokuta. Here’s home, and there is nothing we can do about it. They welcomed us well. The goal is for the fans because of the support,” he added.

Rangers will now shift their focus to continental football as they prepare to face AS Sobemap of Benin in the first preliminary round of the CAF Champions League on Sunday, September 6.