By Samuel Akpan
Nigeria Premier Football League champions, Rangers International, recovered from an early red card to defeat MC Alger 2-0 in the first leg of their CAF Champions League preliminary round tie in Abeokuta.
Goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh was sent off after just 13 minutes when he rushed off his line to challenge Naidji following Ferhat’s long pass, failing to make contact as protests led to two yellow cards for the visitors.
Rangers responded by withdrawing Waheed Adebayo for goalkeeper Lateef Ishola, then later replaced injured Falolu with Temitope Folarin after a heavy challenge from Bangoura, who was booked.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the hosts built through Chidozie Iwundu and Mgbemena while Kenneth Igboke’s long throws and left-side runs troubled MC Alger, with Nwobodo and Folarin going close before the break.
Technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu introduced James Emo and Mgbemena at half-time, and the game levelled when Benhaoua received a second yellow for pulling down Nwobodo, leaving both sides with 10 men.
Rangers created further openings through Igwilo and Emo, including a goal ruled out for offside, before Igwilo was fouled in the box and Super Eagles defender Igboke calmly converted the penalty.
Emo doubled the lead in the 86th minute with a ruthless finish from a rapid counter-attack, sealing a two-goal cushion as Rangers controlled the closing stages and forced Ramdane into a late save.
The Nigerian champions remained competitive throughout, creating multiple chances from set-pieces and counters despite playing much of the match a man down against the Algerian side.
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