Francis Ajuonuma
Enugu Rangers International FC’s failure to reclaim the prestigious Federation Cup in Wednesday’s (June 21, 2023) final held at Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba has been attributed to poor marksmanship in front of goal.
Rangers tactician, Abdul Maikaba, who spoke at the end of the keenly contested game which his lads prosecuted with 10 players in the second half following the sending-off of Chinemerem Ugwueze in the 45th minute for a second booking, believes the outcome would have been different if the six-time champions had taken the several chances that came their way
A late first-half penalty kick converted by Bendel Insurance’s prolific striker, Imade Osarenkhoe, after a suspected handball incident, was all the ‘Benin Arsenal’ needed to win the game and the Federation Cup for the 4th time (1972, 1978, 1980, 2023).
“It was a great display of football artistry from both sides but we failed to take some of our opportunities. I congratulate Bendel Insurance. But this tie could have gone either way as it was a tight contest. Even when we were a goal and player down, we continued pushing them back into their half but we failed to take our chances.”
The Flying Antelopes came into the game full of confidence as they foiled all attacks thrown at them in the early part of the game with goalkeeper, Detan Ogundare making over four saves while there were two goal-line clearances as the coach Monday Odigie’s side was the fastest off the block.
Chidiebere Nwobodo, Godwin Obaje, and Austin Onyemaechi did found it difficult cutting through the backline of the ‘Benin Arsenals’ but had three opportunities that were foiled by the agile, Amas Obasogie, who stood between the sticks coupled with the heroics of Benjamin Tanimu and Sunday Anyanwu in the heart of the defense.
In the added time of the first stanza, Chinemerem Ugwueze was adjudged to have handled the ball in the vital area, and referee, Adebimpe Quadri made the call and issued a second booking with Osarenkhoe slotting the ball past agile Ogundare for what turned out to be the only goal of the 72nd Federation cup competition.
Chances fell for both sides to score more goals with Nwobodo Chidiebere and Godwin Obaje seeing their efforts comfortably dealt with by Obasogie while at the other end, Ogundare’s sharp reflexes helped him to stop two goal-scoring opportunities for the opponents.
For their efforts, Rangers were rewarded with a Seven Million, five hundred thousand naira cheque while the winners, Bendel Insurance got double this amount and the ticket to play in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.
