The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has rejected Enugu Rangers’ request for their CAF Champions League return-leg preliminary-round match against MC Alger to be played behind closed doors.

In a decision dated October 22, CAF’s Disciplinary Board ruled that today’s encounter in Algiers would not be played without spectators, allowing MC Alger supporters to attend the decisive fixture.

Instead, CAF announced that it would open disciplinary proceedings over incidents reported during the first-leg encounter between the two clubs.

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The decision was signed by Ousmane Kane, chairperson of the CAF Disciplinary Board, alongside members Jane Njeri Onyango and Patrick Shale.

Meanwhile, MC Alger has urged its supporters to maintain discipline and avoid actions that could expose the club to sanctions during tonight’s encounter at the Ali La Pointe Stadium in Douera.

In a statement ahead of the match, the Algerian club warned fans against throwing fireworks, plastic bottles and other objects onto the pitch, as well as directing laser beams at players, particularly members of the visiting team.

The club cautioned that such misconduct could attract severe penalties from CAF, including the possibility of playing future continental matches behind closed doors.

MC Alger appealed to its supporters to demonstrate sportsmanship and protect the reputation of the club and the Algerian national flag while providing strong backing for the team.

The club said it was counting on the home crowd to create an energetic atmosphere without engaging in conduct that could undermine its campaign.

Tonight’s fixture comes amid heightened attention following incidents during the first leg in Nigeria, which have prompted CAF to initiate disciplinary proceedings. (Daily Trust)