‘We Are Ready For President Federation Cup’ – Rangers Declar

As the countdown to Nigeria’s oldest football competition intensifies, seven-time Nigerian champions and reigning Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) giants, Rangers International FC, have issued a bold statement of intent.

The Enugu-based club, popularly known as the Flying Antelopes, has officially declared itself fully prepared for the challenges of the 2026 President Federation Cup.

The highly anticipated Round of 64 clash will see the legendary Flying Antelopes lock horns with Nigeria National League (NNL) outfit Godswill Akpabio FC. Despite the lower-division status of their opponents, Rangers are taking nothing for granted, promising a determined and disciplined performance from the first whistle.

The decisive encounter is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 19th May, at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba—a venue known for its intense atmosphere and passionate football fans.

While the match is officially a neutral-ground fixture, the choice of Aba adds an extra layer of intrigue, as both teams will have to adapt quickly to the familiar yet challenging pitch.

In a bpost on their official social media channels, Rangers signaled their mindset heading into the knockout showdown:

“President Federation Cup campaign begins with a Round of 64 clash against Godswill Akpabio FC. Ready for the fight. Ready for the challenge.”

The message underlines a no-nonsense approach from a club with a rich history in the competition. Rangers reached the semi-final stage last year, falling just short of a return to the final. That near miss has only sharpened their hunger for silverware in 2026.

For long-time followers of Nigerian football, Rangers’ name is synonymous with the Federation Cup. The club last lifted the prestigious trophy in 2018, adding to a storied legacy that includes multiple triumphs dating back to the 1970s. Now, after several seasons of near misses, the Flying Antelopes are determined to reclaim their place at the top of the domestic knockout mountain.

With Godswill Akpabio FC hoping to cause a major upset and Rangers aiming to flex their top-flight muscle, this Round of 64 tie promises to be a fierce and fascinating battle.

If Rangers’ declaration of readiness is anything to go by, they will enter the Enyimba International Stadium not just to win, but to make a statement to every other contender left in the draw.