“Enyimba is the Best Team in Nigeria ”- Ilechukwu Says Ahead of Oriental Derby

Published

1 year ago

December 2, 2024

Photo source: Google

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.

I Was a Bit Nervous’ — Referee Daniel Laryea Reflects on AFCON Semi-Final Experience

Published

11 hours ago

January 18, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

Ghanaian Referee, Daniel Laryea, who officiated the Nigeria vs Morocco game in AFCON gets interviews and shared his experience.

The referee reveals how it was his first time in a semi final and was kind of nervous. “I’ve been to three AFCON tournaments, but this is the first time I’ve been in a semi-final.”

“So when coaches choose you for that game, they know your skills and what you can do. But of course, you feel a little nervous because of the level of the match.”

‘The Referee Was Really Bad’ — Osayi-Samuel Reacts to Nigeria’s Defeat Against Morocco

Published

3 days ago

January 15, 2026

Ese Ohwofa

Nigerian Footballer, Bright Osayi-Samuel , react to match as Super Eagles lose to Morocco.

The player calls out CAF for their referee appointment. He shares how the Ghanaian Referee was tough on the field and made bad choices.

“One thing I would say is that the referee was really bad. I’m not saying that was the reason we lost. He is making really bad choices and it’s really tough to watch because we have referees like this in big games like today.

He then praises Morocco for a good game “But Morocco did really well.”