Rangers take 2-0 advantage over MC Alger in CAF Champions League tie

Rangers claimed a valuable 2-0 win over MC Alger in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie at the Moshood Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on Sunday. The Nigerian champions played for most of the match with 10 men after goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh was sent off in the 11th minute.

MC Alger were also reduced to 10 players when Oussama Benhaoua was dismissed seven minutes into the second half. Despite the early setback, Rangers showed considerable resilience and secured a decisive advantage with two goals in the closing stages.

The hosts broke the deadlock six minutes from time after Chimobi Igwilo was brought down inside the penalty area. Kenneth Igboke took responsibility for the resulting penalty and converted calmly, prompting loud celebrations from the home supporters.

Rangers continued to press forward after taking the lead, seeking a second goal rather than settling for a narrow advantage. Their persistence was rewarded in the 86th minute when James Emo completed a swift counter-attack to make it 2-0.

Emo drove forward as Rangers broke quickly before producing a composed finish, giving the home side a strong position ahead of the return fixture. The victory leaves Rangers with a significant advantage as they attempt to complete the tie and progress to the group stage of the CAF Champions League.