NPFL: Ilechukwu Pens New One-Year Contract With Rangers

Fidelis Ilechukwu has put an end to speculation over his future after signing a new one-year contract with Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, champions Rangers International, Completesports.com reports.

Ilechukwu’s contract extension is expected to provide continuity and stability for the Flying Antelopes as they gear up to defend their NPFL title and compete in the CAF Champions League next season.

The young tactician guided Rangers to win their ninth NPFL title on the final day of the 2025/26 season, following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

The 47-year-old joined Rangers in 2023, taking charge of the Enugu-based club after earning a reputation as one of the most respected tacticians in the NPFL.

Ilechukwu enjoyed immediate success at Rangers, leading the Flying Antelopes to their eighth NPFL title in the 2023/24 season.

The former MFM FC coach will now remain with Rangers for a fourth successive season following the contract extension.

Read Also:Rangers Will Renew Coach Ilechukwu’s Contract Ahead 2026/27 NPFL, CAF Champions League — GM, Ezeaku

Ilechukwu is also a member of the Super Eagles’ technical crew, serving as one of the assistant coaches of the Nigerian national team.

He has also had managerial spells with other NPFL clubs, including Plateau United and Heartland.

Ilechukwu’s technical expertise and experience will be vital as Rangers look to make a strong impression in the CAF Champions League next season.

The Coal City club were knocked out in the second preliminary round of the 2024/25 CAF Champions League by Angolan outfit Sagrada Esperança following a 3-1 aggregate defeat.

They won the first leg at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo 1-0, before succumbing to a 3-0 defeat in the return leg in Luanda.

Nigerian clubs have endured a long wait for continental success, with Enyimba the last side to achieve the feat after winning the CAF Champions League in 2004.