In a pre-season encounter at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu on Monday, Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi emerged victorious over Rangers International FC with a score of 2-1.
The Alia Boys set the tone early, asserting control in midfield and creating opportunities through sharp attacking movements and relentless passing. Their dominance paid off in the 41st minute when Abdulazeez Tijani calmly finished a precise assist from Akile Monday, giving the visitors a deserved lead at the break.
Lobi Stars maintained their intensity after the restart, with Francis Odinaka coming close in the 54th minute with a fierce effort from a corner rebound. The pressure finally told in the 74th minute when defender Daniel Edeh produced a moment of magic, blasting a long-range free kick that eluded Rangers goalkeeper Lucky Abdullahi, extending the lead to 2-0.
Rangers responded ten minutes later, as Nnaji Christian rose highest to nod home a consolation goal for the hosts.
Despite a late surge, the Pride of Benue held firm to secure a mature and well-earned 2-1 victory.
Speaking after the match, Lobi Stars’ Technical Adviser, Coach Abubakar Bala, commended the team’s performance and emphasised the importance of remaining focused on the bigger picture. “It’s a good result, but the real work continues. We are building for the season, and I believe the fans will have reasons to be proud when the league begins,” he stated.
Earlier, the Chairman of Lobi Stars, Dr. Phillip Nongu, praised the Alia Boys for their brilliant performance, saying it will boost fan confidence in the club, while urging them to remain focused on building momentum for the season ahead.
