Rangers International FC secured a 2-0 victory over Algerian champions MC Alger in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The Nigerian champions played with 10 men for most of the first half after goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh was sent off just after the 11th minute. However, they showed great determination to overcome the setback and take a two-goal lead into the return leg.
MC Alger also finished with 10 men after defender Benhaoua received a second yellow card in the second half.
Rangers started the match strongly, putting the visitors under pressure and creating early chances. Azeez Falolu won a free-kick from about 30 yards, while a deflected effort from Godwin Obaje went wide.
The game changed when MC Alger launched a counter-attack and Ferhat sent a long pass towards Naidji. Jimoh rushed out of his goal to stop the attack but failed to reach the ball, leading to his dismissal.
Rangers technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu responded by bringing on goalkeeper Lateef Ishola for forward Waheed Adebayo.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, Rangers continued to compete strongly. Captain Chidiebere Nwobodo and Obaje led several attacking moves, while Kenneth Igboke caused problems for the visitors with his runs down the left and long throws.
The hosts created more chances before half-time but could not find the breakthrough.
Rangers made changes at the start of the second half as they looked to increase their attacking threat. Their chances improved when Benhaoua was sent off for a second bookable offence after pulling back Nwobodo.
With both teams reduced to 10 men, Rangers pushed forward in search of a goal. James Emo thought he had put the hosts ahead after receiving a pass from Chimobi Igwilo, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
The breakthrough finally came in the 73rd minute when Igwilo was brought down inside the penalty area.
Super Eagles defender Igboke stepped up and calmly converted the penalty to give Rangers the lead.
The Nigerian side continued to press and doubled their advantage in the 86th minute. Emo led a quick counter-attack before finishing confidently to make it 2-0.
Rangers had another opportunity to increase their lead when Igwilo created space inside the penalty area, but MC Alger goalkeeper Ramdane made a save to prevent further damage.
The victory gives Rangers a two-goal advantage ahead of the return leg as they continue their push for a place in the next round of the CAF Champions League.
