Rangers International scored twice in the final six minutes to beat MC Alger 2-0 in their CAF Champions League second preliminary round first leg, despite playing with ten men for most of the match at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
However, the Nigerian champions have now petitioned the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over alleged vandalism and disorder involving MC Alger supporters during and after Sunday’s match.
Kenneth Igboke converted a penalty in the 84th minute before James Emo doubled the lead three minutes later, giving Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu’s side a two-goal cushion ahead of the return leg in Algeria.
Rangers’ goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh was sent off in the 13th minute after a foul on MC Alger’s Zakaria Naidji, who was through on goal following a pass from Zinedine Ferhat.
The Flying Antelopes, however, held firm. The visitors were also reduced to ten men in the 51st minute after Oussama Benhaoua received a second yellow card.
The Algerians, who won the domestic title and beat ASN Nigelec of Niger Republic 5-0 on aggregate to reach this stage, could not make their numerical advantage count.
Rangers had a difficult passage from the last round, advancing 5-4 on penalties against AS Sobemap of Benin Republic after a 1-1 aggregate score in Lomé, Togo.
The winner of the tie will book a place in the 2026/27 group stage.
Rangers Take Grievances to CAF
In a statement published on the club’s Facebook page on Monday, October 19, Rangers accused some MC Alger supporters of damaging a stadium entrance gate, vandalising seats in the covered stands and entering the venue without paying gate fees.
“The Club has raised concerns regarding the reported destruction of a stadium entrance gate, unauthorised entry without payment of gate fees, vandalisation of stadium seats and other acts of disorder,” the statement read.
The club also expressed concern over reports that its assistant coach was attacked, with more than 400 Algerian supporters allegedly involved in the unrest.
Rangers asked CAF to intervene and consider precautionary measures to guarantee adequate security for the return leg in Algiers on Friday, October 23, 2026.
“Rangers International FC remains committed to fair play, respect for football regulations and the safety of players, officials, supporters and all stakeholders,” the statement added.
The club said it is awaiting CAF’s response and urged supporters to remain calm and disciplined.
In the CAF Confederation Cup, Nigerian side El Kanemi salvaged a 2-2 draw against Raja Casablanca. The return leg is set for Rabat next weekend.
