Despite securing a 1-0 win in the first leg of their CAF Champions League first round preliminary tie against Zilimadjou FC of Comoros, Enugu Rangers coach Fidelis Ilechukwu believes the game is still evenly balanced heading into the return leg at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, on Friday (today).
Uwumiro Frank’s 22nd-minute goal gave the Nigerian a win in the first leg played on Sunday at the same venue.
Both sides adopted the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, for their CAF Champions League games after their respective stadiums failed to meet CAF’s approval.
The Comoros side were the home team during the first leg, and Ilechukwu believes the Flying Antelopes must up the ante if their second meeting will guarantee their progress into the second round.
“We are not sleeping because we wanted to finish the game in the first leg, but as it stands, the game is still open; it’s still 50/50, so we want to do everything to advance to the next round,” Ilechukwu told PUNCH Sports Extra.
“Surprisingly, they mastered the pitch, and thank God we were able to settle down as quickly as possible too.”
The Enugu Rangers coach also reflected on their 1-0 win during the first leg and hailed the qualities of their opponents.
“We had a lot of chances we didn’t take, and we are working tirelessly to be better in the second leg. Our opponents came out in the second half when they saw our struggle to convert chances in the first leg. They are a very good side, very physical, and they showed quality in strength, and their players have pace too.”
However, the Flying Antelopes are going into today’s game as favourites, and a draw will be enough to see them progress to the next round of the competition.
PUNCH
