Fidelis Ilechukwu of Rangers International said the defeat to Kano Pillars in the President Federation Cup Round of 64 is very painful, Silvernews.com.ng reports.
Six-time Nigeria Cup champions and last season’s losing finalist, Rangers will take no further part in this year’s edition after losing to Kano Pillars 6-5 on penalties after score at the end of ninety minutes stood at 1-1 in a match played at Bwari Township Stadium, F.C.T.
Ilechukwu, in his post-match thoughts said the team will now focus on their ambitions in the 2023/2024 NPFL while appealing to their fans to stay calm after the disappointing performance.
He said: “The game was a good display of football from both teams but I think we were supposed to have won the game in the regular time because we created more chances, especially in the second half but we were unable to bury them. That is football for you. It happens sometimes. It is painful.
“A first-time exit in the very first round of the competition for us. We are not happy but there is nothing we can do. I wish Kano Pillars the best of luck. We now have to focus on the league as we appeal to our fans for today’s disappointing performance.”
Rangers will now concentrate more on the remaining matches of the NPFL 2023/2024 season which is on a month’s break for Rivers United to prosecute all their outstanding games.
