CAF Champions League: Rangers Strike Late to Beat MC Alger 2-0

Enugu Rangers scored twice in the closing stages to secure a 2-0 victory over Algerian champions MC Alger in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary-round tie on Sunday.

Kenneth Igboke and James Emo found the net late in the encounter at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, handing the Flying Antelopes a valuable advantage ahead of the return fixture in Algeria.

Rangers had to overcome a major setback after being reduced to 10 men in the 13th minute. Despite their numerical disadvantage, the Nigerian champions remained competitive and eventually broke through in the closing stages.

Igboke opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 84th minute, giving the home side a crucial breakthrough after a difficult contest against the Algerian champions.

Three minutes later, Emo doubled Rangers' advantage, scoring in the 87th minute to complete a late double that put the Nigerian side firmly in control of the tie.

The two goals rewarded Rangers' persistence and gave them a significant cushion to take into the second leg, scheduled for Friday, October 23, in Algeria.

The victory also represents an important step in Rangers' pursuit of a place in the group stage of Africa's premier club competition. However, the Flying Antelopes will need another disciplined performance away from home to preserve their advantage and complete the job.

Rangers reached the second preliminary round after eliminating AS Sobemap of the Benin Republic in the previous stage. The tie ended 1-1 on aggregate before the Enugu-based club secured a 5-4 victory in the penalty shootout in Lomé.

MC Alger, meanwhile, booked their place in this round with a commanding 5-0 aggregate victory over Nigerien side ASN Nigelec. The Algerian outfit had played out a goalless draw in the first leg before completing the job in the return encounter.

The visitors arrived in Nigeria as a formidable opponent following their domestic league triumph, but Rangers took advantage of their home fixture to claim an important result.

The Nigerian club will now prepare for a challenging return leg, knowing that MC Alger will be looking to overturn the two-goal deficit in front of their supporters.

Rangers boast a rich history in Nigerian football, having won nine league titles, including their latest triumph in 2026. They also lifted the African Cup Winners' Cup in 1977, further cementing their place among the country's historic clubs.

A successful outcome over the two legs would secure the Flying Antelopes a place in the CAF Champions League group stage, marking another significant achievement for the Enugu side on the continental scene.