The Enugu football renaissance received another major boost at the weekend as Rangers International FC Under-19 team played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s triumph at the Pan-African G.O.A.T (Game On Afrika Tournament) in Accra, Ghana.
Nigeria emerged champions after a tense 1–1 draw against hosts Ghana, before sealing victory 4–2 on penalties at the Madina Zongo pitch. The success bore a strong Enugu imprint, with six players from the Rangers Youth Academy, alongside their coach, forming the backbone of the Nigeria selected squad.
Coached by Felix Ifeanyi, the Rangers U19 players displayed composure, technical quality and discipline throughout the tournament, underlining the growing strength of the club’s youth development programme and reaffirming Enugu’s rising status in African football.
Reacting to the feat, General Manager of Rangers International FC, Amobi Ezeaku, praised Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, for his motivation, support and sustained commitment to the club, describing the victory as a direct outcome of purposeful leadership.
“This success did not come by chance,” Ezeaku said.
“Governor Peter Mbah has consistently motivated us and shown uncommon commitment to Rangers International FC, especially in youth development. His support has given us the confidence to plan long-term, invest in our academy and expose our young players to top-level competition.”
He added that the governor’s passion for sports development had created an enabling environment for young footballers to thrive.
“When players know that the government believes in them and backs the club, it reflects in their performance. This victory in Ghana is a testament to that vision and support,” Ezeaku noted.
Observers say the triumph in Accra reflects the broader reforms in Enugu sports under the Governor Mbah administration, whose administration has prioritised infrastructure, welfare, grassroots programmes and professional management across the sector.
They added that the interventions have helped reposition Rangers not only as a domestic powerhouse, but also as a leading hub for talent development in Africa.
The Ghana success also comes at a crucial time as the Rangers U19 team prepares for an upcoming tour of the United Kingdom. The tour is expected to offer the young players valuable exposure, competitive experience and opportunities to attract interest from international clubs and scouts.
“This win gives the boys confidence going into the UK tour,” Ezeaku said, adding that “It sends a clear message that Enugu is producing players who can compete anywhere in the world.”
Under Ezeaku’s leadership, Rangers International FC has embraced modern football administration, strengthening its youth pathway and adopting global best practices in management and player development. The club’s academy structure is increasingly being viewed as a model within Nigeria and beyond.
For the Rangers U19 players who spoke to newsmen, the journey from Enugu to Accra, and soon to the United Kingdom, symbolises ambition and opportunity.
The victory, according to officials, reinforces a growing narrative; that strategic leadership, sustained investment and belief in youth can translate into continental success.