By Francis Ajuonuma
Enugu Rangers’ hope to once again win Nigeria’s most glamourous football competition, the Federation Cup, will be put to a serious test this evening when they take on Plateau United of Jos in a semi-final clash at the Dipo Dina International Stadium, Ijebu-Ode with victory either side guaranteeing qualification to the final.
The six-time Federation Cup Champions have been very impressive in the run-up to this clash, having defeated Kano Pillars 2-0, FC Ebedei 3-1, before dispatching Doma Utd of Gombe 1-0 in the quarter-finals.
Plateau United, also have been promising with their performances so far, which have seen them defeat Enyimba FC 3-2, Igas FC 2-1 and edged out Kwara Utd 1-0 to set up for this stage of the competition.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Rangers’ coach, Abdu Maikaba admitted that the ‘Tin City’ outfit are not going to be easy side to break but remains optimistic that his ‘Coal City Warriors’ are very well prepared and ready to carry the day at the end of the encounter which promises to be very explosive.
“We have prepared ourselves to play against any opposition as our target remains being crowned the Federation Cup champions for the season. Undoubtedly, Plateau will come out strong and determined, but my players are well-motivated to get the desired result.
“I believe that the way my players are responding to training and instructions, there will be no stopping us from winning the oldest club competition for the 7th time,” Maikaba boasted
Both sides have played against each other 12 times in the top flight with the Jos’ side recording six wins as against five for the Enugu side while one game ended in a draw.
Top players to watch out for in this top-of-the-bill encounter include but are not restricted to Chidiebere Nwobodo, Godwin Obaje, Samuel Pam, Austin Onyemaechi for the multi-titlist, Rangers with Mustapha Ibrahim, Chimezie Izuchukwu, Nenrot Silas and Daniel Itodo doing well for the one-time winner.
