The Confederation of African Football, CAF, has rejected Rangers’ request for their CAF Champions League preliminary round second-leg encounter against MC Alger to be played behind closed doors.

The decisive fixture, scheduled for Friday evening (today) at the Ali La Pointe Stadium in Douera, Algeria, will go ahead with spectators permitted in the stands following CAF’s decision.

Rangers had sought to have the match played without fans, but the governing body’s refusal means MC Alger supporters will be allowed to turn out in support of their team as both sides battle for a place in the group stage of the CAF Champions League.

In preparation for the crucial encounter, MC Alger’s management has urged supporters to maintain discipline, demonstrate good sportsmanship and contribute to a peaceful atmosphere throughout the game.

Rangers head into the return leg with a significant advantage after securing a 2-0 victory in the first leg at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta last weekend.

The Nigerian champions will now aim to protect their lead and seal qualification for the next stage of the competition.