Sport
“Enyimba is the Best Team in Nigeria ”- Ilechukwu Says Ahead of Oriental Derby
Rangers’ technical adviser, Fidelis Ilechukwu, has described Enyimba as the strongest team in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) as they prepare for their much-anticipated Oriental Derby.
The clash, set for Tuesday in Aba, is part of the NPFL matchday 15 fixtures and promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the league’s biggest names.
Ilechukwu acknowledged the formidable reputation of Enyimba, also known as the People’s Elephant, during a conversation with 54footballx.
He commended their consistent performances, both domestically and on the continental stage.
According to Ilechukwu, facing a team of such caliber is both a challenge and a motivation for his squad, the Flying Antelopes.
“This is a big game, no doubt about it,” Ilechukwu stated. “We’re up against Enyimba, the best team in Nigeria.
They’ve shown their quality in every competition they play, and it’s no surprise they’re doing well on the continent.”
Despite the uphill task, Ilechukwu expressed confidence in his team’s readiness for the derby. He stressed that football is unpredictable, with three possible outcomes: a win, a loss, or a draw.
The key, he noted, is to focus on their game plan and not be distracted by Enyimba’s status or achievements.
“We’re prepared for the game. It’s just football—anything can happen.
While Enyimba is in excellent form, especially with their international engagements, we’re not letting that get to us.
Our focus is on playing our game and giving it our best.”
The Oriental Derby is a historic rivalry that has produced some of the most exciting moments in Nigerian football.
Enyimba, an eight-time NPFL champion, boasts a rich history and a squad filled with experienced and talented players.
Their success on the continental stage, including two CAF Champions League titles, further cements their position as a powerhouse in African football.
Rangers, on the other hand, are one of Nigeria’s oldest and most respected clubs, with a legacy that includes seven NPFL titles.
Barcelona’s teenage football sensation Lamine Yamal has shared his love for Afrobeats, and fans are loving it.
In a recent chat with TTV, the young star opened up about his music taste, saying he enjoys African sounds. When asked to name his favorite Afrobeats artists, he didn’t hesitate—Burna Boy and Rema top his playlist. “I listen to a lot of Afro music,” Yamal said casually during the interview.
His answer took many by surprise, especially since he’s been seen vibing with Nigerian artist Skales. The connection makes sense though—Skales’ 2015 banger Shake Body went viral again thanks to Yamal’s dance moves, sparking fresh attention online.
Former Chelsea star Florent Malouda believes Victor Osimhen would be a fantastic addition to the club as they look to strengthen their attack ahead of next season. With Nicolas Jackson struggling to impress consistently, Chelsea are reportedly targeting a new frontman—and Osimhen is high on their list.
Although a move for the Nigerian striker nearly happened last season, wage demands stalled the deal. Still, Malouda hopes the transfer can finally go through this time. “The connection between Osimhen and Chelsea is strong,” Malouda told Racing Tipster. “We’ve had top African players at the club in the past, and I believe Osimhen can lead the next wave.”
He added that Osimhen wouldn’t just be good for the team but could also push Jackson to improve his game. “We need a striker who can score 20 or more goals a season, and Osimhen is that kind of player,” Malouda said. “He’d be a great signing and a major boost for Maresca’s side.”
Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has praised Mason Mount and Kobbie Mainoo for their impact in the club’s 4-1 win over Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League semi-final second leg at Old Trafford. Mount scored twice, while Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund added one each to seal the dominant win and send United into the final.
Amorim, speaking after the match, expressed his joy at seeing Mount and Mainoo come off the bench to help turn the game around. “I’m really happy for Mason,” Amorim said. “And I liked what I saw from Kobbie too. Sometimes you come off the bench and completely change the game.” He went on to highlight Mount’s work ethic and versatility.
“When you have someone like Mason who trains hard, eats right, takes his recovery seriously—you just want to support him,” he said. “He’s ideal for that role. He can control the midfield and also run like a winger.” Up next, Manchester United will meet Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final later this month.
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