By Godwin Akomah, Umuahia
As anticipation builds for the 2026 President Federation Cup, seven-time Nigerian champions, Rangers International FC, have sent a strong warning to their rivals by declaring themselves fully prepared for the battle ahead.
The Enugu-based giants, famously known as the Flying Antelopes, will begin their campaign in Nigeria’s oldest football competition with a Round of 64 showdown against Nigeria National League side, Godswill Akpabio FC.
The highly anticipated encounter is slated for Tuesday, May 19, at the iconic Enyimba International Stadium — a venue renowned for its electrifying football atmosphere and passionate supporters.
Despite facing lower-division opposition, Rangers are refusing to underestimate their opponents. The reigning NPFL powerhouse has vowed to approach the fixture with maximum focus, discipline, and determination as they aim to avoid an upset and make an early statement in the competition.
In a post shared across the club’s official social media platforms, Rangers made their intentions crystal clear: “President Federation Cup campaign begins with a Round of 64 clash against Godswill Akpabio FC. Ready for the fight. Ready for the challenge.”
The bold declaration reflects the mentality within the Rangers camp as they seek redemption after narrowly missing out on a place in last season’s final. The Flying Antelopes reached the semi-finals in 2025 but fell short of completing their journey to the title match.
For decades, Rangers have remained one of the most successful and respected clubs in Nigerian football history, particularly in the Federation Cup. Their last triumph in the prestigious tournament came in 2018, adding to a rich legacy built over generations since the 1970s.
Now, driven by renewed ambition and the desire to reclaim domestic knockout glory, the Enugu giants are determined to launch another memorable cup run.
However, Godswill Akpabio FC will arrive in Aba with dreams of producing one of the biggest shocks of the round. Cup competitions have often delivered stunning surprises, and the NNL side will hope to capitalize on that tradition against their more illustrious opponents.
With pride, history, and progression at stake, the Round of 64 encounter promises to deliver an intense and entertaining battle.
If Rangers’ confident declaration is anything to go by, the Flying Antelopes are heading to Aba with one mission — not just to win, but to remind the rest of the competition why they remain one of Nigerian football’s most feared sides.
