Sunday’s Eastern Derby between Rangers International and Enyimba International dominates Nigerian football debates.
Beyond the local bragging rights, the opportunity to get closer to the league title adds another layer of excitement to this crucial clash at the Enugu “Cathedral”.
Fortunately, for fans outside of Coal City, the NPFL’s official broadcaster StarTimes will broadcast the game live on its Beta Sports 244 channel at 5 p.m.
As the countdown to Sunday’s Super Clash continues, PREMIUM TIMES highlights five players fans should watch out for in the Derby Oriental.
Godwin Obaje Credit Rangers X Page
Godwin Obaje (Rangers):
Obaje’s prolific form is one of the main reasons why Rangers currently lead the NPFL table. Obaje, a seasoned NPFL player with experience at Abia Warriors, Plateau United, Wikki Tourists and the defunct FC Ifeanyi Ubah, has an impressive 11 goals in the league so far. Fidelis Illechukwu, the coach of the “Flying Antelopes”, is confident in Obaje’s scoring ability to secure the league title.
Daniel Daga (Enyimba):
The Nigerian youth international is looking for redemption in this match after being labeled a villain in the first match last December. A crucial error from the talented midfielder cost Enyimba dearly as Rangers earned a point for the first time in seven years with a 1-1 draw. Daga, with another chance to prove himself, is expected to go all out against the Flying Antelopes and make amends in Enugu. Hopefully, the extra adrenaline will fuel positive performance, not negative.
Chijioke Mbaoma Creidt Enyimba X Page
Chijioke Mbaoma (Enyimba):
As the NPFL’s leading scorer, Mbaoma is a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Derby. He even opened the scoring in the second leg. Looking ahead to Sunday’s game, Mbaoma has a double ambition: to defeat Rangers with his goals and propel Enyimba to the top of the table. However, coach Fidelis Ilechukwu is likely to devise a strategy to neutralize Mbaoma’s attacking threats, so it will not be an easy ride for him at Cathedral.
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Salvador Isaac (Rangers):
Since announcing himself with a spectacular goal against Kano Pillars, Isaac has caught the attention of the Flying Antelopes. Isaac, who had previously etched his name in Vandrezzer FC history, spent three remarkable years with the club in the Nigerian National League.
During his tenure, he lifted the Lagos FA Cup with the Lions in 2021 and became the club’s all-time leading scorer with an impressive 11 goals.
Now facing a bigger challenge at Rangers, Isaac is aiming for the league title in his first season with the club. Fully aware that Enyimba could be a major obstacle, Isaac will be prepared for Sunday’s Elephants.
Main Image Credit Enyimba Page X by Enyimba
Uwana Asuquo (Enyimba):
Consecutively awarded the Player of the Month award with Enyimba, the right-back has been a pillar of the “People’s Elephant”. Desperate not only to triumph in the Derby Oriental but also to defend the title he won last season under the guidance of Finidi George (now coach of the Nigerian national team), Asuquo has consistently put in solid performances. He excels defensively while also contributing crucial goals and assists for the Aba Landlords.