Rangers International produced a remarkable display of resilience to defeat Algerian giants MC Alger 2-0 in a dramatic first-leg encounter of the 2026/27 CAF Champions League second preliminary round at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta, on Sunday.
Sports247 reports that despite playing with 10 men from the 13th minute, the Flying Antelopes refused to surrender, eventually breaking the deadlock through an 83rd-minute penalty before James Emo doubled their advantage four minutes later.
The victory handed the Nigerian champions a valuable two-goal advantage ahead of the decisive return fixture in Algeria on October 23.
The encounter began with high intensity, but Rangers suffered a major setback in the 13th minute when one of their players received a red card.
The dismissal forced the Nigerian champions to reorganise their approach, with head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu facing the challenge of keeping his side competitive despite the numerical disadvantage.
Rangers continued to search for opportunities and earned a promising free kick close to the opposition’s penalty area in the 38th minute.
However, neither side could find the breakthrough before halftime, with the first 45 minutes ending goalless.
The second half began with renewed intensity as Rangers attempted to find a way past the Algerian visitors. The Flying Antelopes made tactical adjustments, including a double substitution that saw striker Obaje withdrawn.
The complexion of the encounter changed in the 52nd minute when MC Alger’s number 23 was shown a red card.
However, the dismissal sparked controversy as the player reportedly refused to leave the pitch immediately, resulting in a temporary delay. With both teams now reduced to 10 players, the contest became increasingly tense.
The drama continued in the 70th minute when an MC Alger official was also dismissed from the technical area. The incident added to the tension surrounding an already fiercely contested encounter.
Despite the interruptions, Rangers maintained their determination to secure a positive result on home soil.
After more than 80 minutes of intense football, Rangers finally found the breakthrough in the 83rd minute. The Nigerian champions were awarded a penalty, which was successfully converted to put the Flying Antelopes ahead.
Four minutes later, James Emo struck in the 87th minute to double Rangers’ advantage and send the home supporters into celebration.
The late goals transformed what had appeared destined to be a goalless draw into an important first-leg victory. The 2-0 result places Rangers in a promising position ahead of the return leg against MC Alger on October 23.
However, the Flying Antelopes will be aware that the tie remains undecided, particularly against opponents capable of producing strong performances on home soil. For Fidelis Ilechukwu and his players, maintaining defensive discipline and composure will be essential when they travel to Algeria.
After overcoming an early red card, prolonged controversy and more than 80 minutes without a goal, Rangers International demonstrated remarkable determination to secure a memorable 2-0 victory and move closer to the CAF Champions League group stage.
