MC Alger’s hopes of reaching the CAF Champions League have been damaged by a 2-0 defeat by Enugu Rangers, while Raja Casablanca surrendered a late lead to draw 2-2 with El Kanemi Warriors in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Playing at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Nigeria, on Sunday, MC Alger were beaten in the first leg of their second preliminary round tie.

The Algerian side had a numerical advantage from the 13th minute, when Enugu Rangers forward Lucky Jimoh was sent off. However, MC Alger were unable to use that advantage to take control of the match.

Their task became even more difficult when they were also reduced to 10 players. Enugu Rangers then struck twice in the closing stages, scoring in the 84th minute from the penalty spot before adding a second goal three minutes later.

The result leaves MC Alger needing to overturn a two-goal deficit in the return leg in Algiers on 23 October. Head coach Khaled Ben Yahia is under mounting pressure, with supporters already calling for his departure.

Raja let lead slip in Ikenne

Also in Nigeria, Raja Casablanca were held to a 2-2 draw by El Kanemi Warriors at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne in their CAF Confederation Cup play-off first leg.

The hosts made the stronger start and went ahead in the sixth minute. Raja, known as the Green Eagles, responded through Mohammad Abu Zrayq, who levelled the score in the 24th minute.

The Moroccan club completed the turnaround shortly after the hour mark when Mathias Oyewusi Kehinde put them in front in the 60th minute.

Raja appeared set to leave Nigeria with an away victory, but El Kanemi Warriors found an equaliser in the 82nd minute to ensure the tie remained level heading into the second leg.

Despite conceding late, Raja Casablanca return home with two away goals, which could prove significant if the second match also ends in a draw under the away-goals rule.

The Rajaouis will host the return fixture on 23 October, when they will attempt to complete the job and secure progress in the competition.