Rangers International Secure Crucial Win In CAF Champions League 2nd Preliminary Round.
Nigerian champions, Rangers International of Enugu, have claimed a narrow but vital 1-0 victory in the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round against Sagranca Esperanca of Angola. The match, played at their temporary home ground in Uyo, saw the Flying Antelopes take control for much of the game but struggle to break down the resolute defence of their opponents.
Despite dominating the proceedings, Rangers were unable to find the back of the net in the first half, with the away side’s defence proving difficult to breach. The second half followed a similar pattern, with coach Fidelis Ilechukwu making key substitutions to try and unlock the Angolan backline, which had grown more confident as the match progressed.
It was substitute Kazeem Ogunleye who finally broke the deadlock in the 77th minute, securing a much-needed win for the Nigerian side. His goal ensured that Rangers will take a slim advantage into the second leg of the tie in Angola.
Rangers will now travel to Angola for the return leg, where they will face Sagranca Esperanca once again. The aggregate winner of the two-legged encounter will progress to the next round of the CAF Champions League.
