Enugu Rangers are in Algeria ahead of their CAF Champions League second leg against MC Alger, who are leading Abeokuta 2-0 to defend. On Wednesday, October 21, CAF confirmed the appointment of Ugandan security expert Dixon Okello to oversee the ties.
The team left on Monday. The Nigerian champions flew through Istanbul on a Turkish Airlines flight and opted for an early departure to allow the players to settle in before the match at the Ali Ammar Stadium, The Guardian reports.
Chief executive Amobi Ezeaku looked relaxed. “I’m here now and I feel at home,” he said. “They can only scream, blow smoke and jump. We will play them in Algeria and win.”
Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu was more circumspect.
He said his side will treat the second leg as a new competition.
Why did CAF intervene?
Sunday’s first game did not end quietly. In a statement on October 19, Rangers said the visiting supporters forced the entrance gate to the MKO Abiola Stadium, damaged seats and entered without paying. The club requested “urgent intervention” from CAF and Benin Web TV reported that the complaint, signed by Ezeaku, required a closed-door counter-meeting.
CAF has not gone that far.
His response is still unusual for an early stage. Kawowo Sports and Afrik-Foot reported on October 21 that CAF and FIFA-certified security officer Okello was joining the match squad, while Africa Top Sports noted that such officers are not normally sent to games at this early stage of the competition. The Lesotho refereeing brigade led by David Molise will officiate. Blueprint added that the CAF Disciplinary Committee will study the video footage from Abeokuta. No sanctions have been announced. According to Afrik-Foot, MC Alger has taken his grievances to CAF.
A lead of ten
The Rangers did it the hard way. Goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh was sent off in the first half and the hosts only came back after MC Alger was down a man in the 52nd minute. Kenneth Igboke executed the penalty in the 83rd minute. James Emo made his second run four minutes later, reports Pulse Sports.
NPFL chief operating officer Ayo Abdulrahman warned that Algeria would be hostile. “There won’t be a tea party, don’t expect them to offer you flowers,” she said.
What it means for Nigerian football
The Rangers carry more than their hopes. Rivers United travel to Ivory Coast’s San Pedro after a 2-2 draw in Uyo in September, and with the first matchday on November 27, a group stage spot for the Flying Antelopes will help a league where boss Abdulrahman has been outspoken about keeping Nigeria’s four-continent nest.
The home table is also important. Their Round 9 game against Bendel Insurance has been postponed for this tie, without a new date yet. Soccernet reports that Rangers are level with Rivers United on 17 points, while Sporting Lagos moved up to third with a win in Jos.
In Algeria, math is simple. Even a 1:0 defeat would send the record to the nine-time champion. Fans who know the buzz of the Eastern derby are still in for a long night.
This article was last revised and updated 15 seconds ago