Heartbreak for Super Eagles assistants: Friends Ilechukwu and Ogunmodede 'humiliated' after Libya hostage nightmare

Fidelis Ilechukwu and Daniel Ogunmodede, two assistant coaches for the Super Eagles, faced a tough week as they grappled with the aftermath of a harrowing 20-hour hostage situation in Libya, only to return to league action with disappointing results.

The duo, who have been friends and colleagues in Nigerian football, experienced heavy defeats in the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, following their traumatic ordeal.

Ilechukwu's defending champions, Rangers, suffered their first home defeat of the season, falling 4-3 to Kano Pillars in a match where Super Eagles skipper Ahmed Musa was instrumental, contributing to all the goals for the visitors.

The loss was particularly painful for Ilechukwu, who had hoped to rally his team after their recent challenges.

Meanwhile, Ogunmodede's Remo Stars faced a similar fate, succumbing to a 3-1 defeat against Plateau Unitedin Jos.

Despite the setback, Remo Stars currently sit second on the league table with 15 points, while Rangers are in seventh place with just ten points.

Both coaches are now under pressure as they navigate the aftermath of their respective defeats. Ilechukwu expressed his frustration post-match, but did well to hide his experiences in Libya.

"We have to take this small advantage of converting chances into our next game. We apologise to our fans that came out inside the rain today to cheer us despite the result of the game. We shall make it up for them.”

As they prepare for upcoming matches, both coaches will need to find ways to motivate their players and regain their footing in the league.

Despite the heavy defeats and emotional turmoil, Ilechukwu and Ogunmodede remain committed to their roles within the Super Eagles setup.

They are expected to reunite with interim coach Augustine Eguavoen as they focus on upcoming African Cup of Nations qualifying matches slated for next month after the game against the Knights was suspended.

Ilechukwu and Ogunmodede's friendship will be crucial in helping them navigate this difficult period in their careers.