Sports
Algerian fans run riot after 2-0 loss to Enugu Rangers, vandalize stadium
More than 400 Algerian supporters reportedly went on a rampage after the final whistle at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, damaging seats in the covered stands.
Angry supporters of Algerian club MC Alger allegedly attacked one of the team’s assistant coaches and vandalised stadium facilities following their 2-0 defeat to Nigeria’s Enugu Rangers in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second-round qualifying tie in Abeokuta on Sunday.
More than 400 Algerian supporters reportedly went on a rampage after the final whistle at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, damaging seats in the covered stands.
The unrest reportedly escalated as some supporters followed the Algerian team towards the tunnel, where an assistant coach was allegedly assaulted. Nigerian police officers attached to the team were said to have intervened and rescued the official from further attacks.
Former Super Eagles striker Victor Ikpeba was also reportedly attacked by members of the Algerian delegation in the VVIP section as he approached them to exchange pleasantries after the match.
Security operatives subsequently locked down parts of the stadium to prevent further violence.
Rangers Take Two-Goal Advantage
On the pitch, Enugu Rangers secured a valuable advantage ahead of the return leg, with Kenneth Igboke converting a penalty in the 81st minute before James Emo scored a late second goal.
The fiercely contested encounter also featured red cards for players from both teams, while an official from the Algerian side was sent off.
Rangers will travel to Algiers for the return leg on October 23, seeking to protect their two-goal lead and secure qualification for the competition’s group stage.
1976 Defeat Offers Rangers a Warning
Despite their advantage, Rangers have historical reasons to approach the return fixture cautiously.
In 1976, the Nigerian club defeated MC Alger 2-0 in the first leg of their African Cup of Champions Clubs encounter but lost the return match 3-0, crashing out 3-2 on aggregate.
MC Alger subsequently won the continental title that year after defeating Guinea’s Hafia FC in the final.
Rangers will therefore be determined to avoid a repeat of that setback as they pursue a place in the group stage of the CAF Champions League.
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