Match Preview: Rangers International V Doma United

In what promises to be an intriguing clash, Rangers International and Doma United are set to face off in their first NPFL game of the season on Saturday, September 30th, 2023, at 4 PM, at the Awka City Stadium in Anambra State. This encounter carries with it a sense of anticipation, as these two teams have crossed paths on three previous occasions in recent times.

Their first meeting in the NPFL was in February 2023 at the Awka City Stadium, where Rangers secured a narrow 1-0 victory. This result undoubtedly provides Rangers with a psychological advantage heading into this fixture.

However, our next encounter was less decisive, as the Pantami Stadium hosted a goalless draw in May. This stalemate had a significant impact on our aspirations for the Super Six playoffs, making this game an opportunity for redemption in our eyes.

The most recent face-off between these sides took place in the Federation Cup quarterfinals in May, with Rangers once again edging past Doma United with a 1-0 victory at the Akure Township Stadium.

Last season, Abdul Maikaba was the Technical Advicer of the Enugu side but he was replaced by Fidelis Ilechukwu who left his post at Plateau United at the end of the last campaign. However, the Savannah Tigers will still be led by Coach Akinade Onigbinde who led his side to a 5th place finish in group B of last season’s abridge league.

Doma United will be without the services of Clement Junior who left the club at the end of last season. Him and Charles Chibuke are the only notable absence in the squad.

As it was last season, the team will be led by our strong defender, Haruna Aliyu with Samuel Matthew possibly starting alongside Hillary. It will be interesting to see who Coach Akinade will pick to spear head the attack.

As we approach this year’s NPFL season opener, the key question on everyone’s mind is whether Rangers will continue their dominance over Doma United or if Doma United will seize the chance to avenge their previous defeats. This match is not just about points on the table; it is about redemption, and the pursuit of glory in the Nigerian Professional Football League.