Earlier today, Rangers International Football Club hosted the champions of the just-concluded Governor Peter Mbah Students Inter-Campus Football Tournament, the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) Lions, in an entertaining friendly that ended 5–2 in favour of the Flying Antelopes.
The encounter, played under a lively atmosphere in Enugu, went far beyond a friendly fixture , it was a clash between youthful ambition and seasoned professionalism. Though the scoreboard tilted in favour of the NPFL giants, the UNN Lions showcased skill, determination, and fighting spirit worthy of champions.
From the first whistle, both sides displayed impressive tactical discipline. Rangers dominated possession and showed clinical finishing, but the UNN team refused to be intimidated, finding the back of the net twice and thrilling the spectators with flashes of brilliance.
The match served as a major learning curve and exposure platform for the student-athletes, giving them a taste of what professionalism in football truly entails. Despite the defeat, the Lions’ resilience drew applause from fans and officials alike.
A special appreciation was extended to the management of Enugu Rangers, under the dynamic leadership of Barr. Amobi Ezeaku, whose vision continues to bridge the gap between student and professional football in Enugu State. Gratitude also went to Head Coach Fidelis for his mentorship and encouragement, which turned the students’ dreams into reality.
The spirit of sportsmanship and unity on display reaffirmed Enugu’s reputation as the heartbeat of football in the Southeast. As one spectator aptly put it, “The UNN Lions may have lost the game, but they’ve won the hearts of football lovers across Enugu.”
Indeed, it was more than a match, it was a celebration of talent, teamwork, and the bright future of student football in Enugu State.
