Nigerian champions Rangers' NPFL win against Ikorodu City overshadowed by lingering fan disappointment.
Nigerian champions Enugu Rangers secured a vital 1-0 victory against Ikorodu City in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Wednesday which has done little to soothe the pain of some fans still reeling from the club's recent CAF Champions League (CAFCL) exit.
The Flying Antelopes, seeking to bounce back from their continental disappointment, took to social media to celebrate their narrow win, posting:
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"First win of the season, first away win of the NPFL25. We hope to maintain the momentum as we ease our CAF pains."
However, the club's attempt to rally support and move forward was met with a stark reminder of the deep disappointment felt by some supporters.
One fan, in particular, responded to the club's post with raw emotion:
"Una de craze... Nothing is easing that pain in my heart. I got sick and still not eating good since Sunday," the fan commented, highlighting the profound impact of the team's CAFCL elimination on some of its most devoted followers.
This exchange shows the challenges Rangers could face in rebuilding fan morale following their unexpected exit from the continental competition.
Despite the importance of Wednesday's NPFL victory - their first of the season - it's clear that for some supporters, the wound of the CAFCL defeat remains fresh.
Fan reactions like this are not uncommon after significant losses. The club will need to acknowledge these feelings while also working to rebuild confidence and excitement around their domestic campaign.
The Flying Antelopes will need to balance celebrating their successes with sensitivity to the lingering disappointment among their fanbase.
The coming weeks will be crucial for the club as they seek to fully turn the page on their CAFCL exit and refocus supporter enthusiasm on their league campaign.
The Flying Antelopes' next match, scheduled for this weekend against leaders Remo Stars, will be closely watched not just for the on-field performance, but also for how the team and its fans continue to process and move past their recent continental setback.