Maikaba: Missed chances cost Rangers Federation Cup trophy

Rangers head coach Abdulahi Maikaba has revealed that his players’ failure to convert their chances cost them the 2023 Federation Cup title.

The Flying Antelopes lost 1-0 against Bendel Insurance in the final of the cup competition at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, on Wednesday.

Imade Osehenkhoe scored the winning goal from the spot late in the first half.

Rangers finished the game with 10 men after Chinemerem Ugwueze was sent off in the first half for a second bookable offence.

Maikaba labelled the encounter as a great display of football artistry and commended his players for their push despite being a player down.

“It was a great display of football artistry from both sides,” he told the club’s media after the game.

“We failed to take some of our opportunities. I congratulate Bendel Insurance.

“But this tie could have gone either way as it was a tight contest. Even when we were a goal and player down, we continued pushing them back into their half but we failed to take our chances.”

Rangers failed to win a historic seventh Federation Cup title and also missed out on CAF Confederation Cup next season.