Enugu Rangers International produced a determined performance to defeat Algerian champions MC Alger 2-0 in the first leg of their second preliminary-round tie in the CAF Champions League on Sunday, despite playing with 10 men for most of the encounter.

The Nigeria Premier Football League champions overcame the early dismissal of goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh to secure a valuable advantage at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Blueprint reports

Jimoh was sent off in the 13th minute after rushing out of his penalty area to stop an advancing MC Alger attacker. The goalkeeper failed to make contact with the ball before bringing down the opponent, leaving the referee with little option but to show him a red card.

Rangers responded by introducing goalkeeper Lateef Ishola for forward Waheed Adebayo, forcing the Nigerian side to make an early tactical adjustment and play with a numerical disadvantage.

Despite the setback, the Flying Antelopes remained organised and eventually broke the deadlock through Kenneth Igboke, who converted a penalty in the 84th minute before substitute James Emo doubled their advantage three minutes later.

Algerian fans visible violence

Blueprint.ng reports that as the match ended in Abeokuta, Ogun state capital, Algerian fans turned defeat to violence, by destroying the seats and throwing items into the pitch.

Jimoh’s dismissal tests Rangers’ resolve

The early red card threatened to derail Rangers’ plans against an experienced North African opponent, but the Nigerian champions showed resilience to remain competitive.

With Ishola replacing Adebayo, Rangers reorganised their formation and worked to contain MC Alger’s attempts to exploit their numerical advantage.

The visitors sought to capitalise on the situation, but Rangers continued to create opportunities of their own, relying on their attacking transitions and set-piece deliveries to trouble the Algerian defence.

Captain Chidiebere Nwobodo was among those who attempted to inspire the hosts, while the defensive unit worked to prevent MC Alger from turning their numerical advantage into a decisive breakthrough.

Rangers’ ability to stay in the contest proved crucial as the match progressed, with the team maintaining its discipline until the closing stages.

Igboke, Emo deliver late goals

Rangers’ persistence eventually paid off in the 84th minute when the referee awarded a penalty after a foul inside the MC Alger box.

Igboke stepped forward and converted the spot kick, sending the Nigerian side into the lead and giving the home supporters renewed hope after a difficult afternoon.

The goal shifted the momentum in Rangers’ favour, and they capitalised on the opportunity to extend their advantage just three minutes later.

Emo finished off a swift attacking move to make it 2-0, giving Rangers a two-goal cushion heading into the return leg in Algeria.

The late goals rewarded Rangers’ determination after spending most of the encounter with a player fewer and placed them in a stronger position in the two-legged contest.

Rangers seek advantage in Algeria

The victory gives Rangers an important lead before the return leg scheduled for Friday, October 23, in Algeria. However, the Nigerian side will need another disciplined performance to complete the job against the Algerian champions.

Rangers reached the second preliminary round after overcoming AS Sobemap of Benin Republic in a closely contested tie. Both legs ended 1-1, leaving the Nigerian champions to secure qualification through a 5-4 penalty shootout victory in Lomé.

MC Alger, meanwhile, advanced after recording a 5-0 aggregate victory over Niger’s ASN Nigelec. The Algerian side had drawn the first leg before producing a commanding performance in the return fixture.

Rangers will hope their two-goal advantage proves sufficient when the teams meet again, although MC Alger will have the opportunity to respond on home soil.

The Enugu-based club, which has won nine Nigerian league titles, including the 2026 championship, also boasts continental pedigree, having won the African Cup Winners’ Cup in 1977.

With qualification for the CAF Champions League group stage at stake, Rangers will be looking to build on Sunday’s victory and complete the assignment in Algeria.