Nigerian champions Rangers International have been drawn against Benin Republic’s AS Sobemap in the first preliminary round of the 2026/27 CAF Champions League, marking a crucial step in their quest to return to the competition’s group stage. The Flying Antelopes will host the opening leg at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Nigeria, before traveling to Benin for the return fixture. This matchup sets the stage for a challenging campaign as Rangers aim to replicate the success of Enyimba, the only Nigerian club to have won the CAF Champions League twice.
If Rangers overcome AS Sobemap, they will face either Niger Republic’s ASN Nigelec or Algeria’s MC Alger in the second preliminary round. MC Alger, a well-established team in African football, presents a significant test, while ASN Nigelec could offer a more manageable challenge depending on form and preparation. The draw highlights the competitive nature of the early stages, where even top Nigerian clubs must navigate tough opposition to advance.
Meanwhile, Rivers United have also received a demanding assignment, being paired with Côte d’Ivoire’s San Pedro in the same opening preliminary round. Finidi George’s side will need to perform at their best to progress, especially given the quality of Ivorian football. Should they defeat San Pedro, Rivers United will face either Uganda’s Vipers SC or Mauritania’s FC Nouadhibou in the next round, adding another layer of uncertainty to their journey.
The first-leg matches of the opening preliminary round are scheduled for September 4–6, 2026, with the return fixtures set for September 11–13. The second preliminary round will follow shortly after, with first legs taking place from October 16–18 and return games from October 23–25, 2026. Winners of this round will earn a coveted spot in the group stage, where they will compete against Africa’s elite clubs.
This year’s CAF Champions League draw underscores the growing competitiveness of African club football, with Nigerian teams facing strong opponents from across the continent. While Rangers and Rivers United carry the hopes of Nigerian fans, they must remain focused and disciplined throughout the qualification process. The path to the group stage is narrow, but success in these early rounds could mark a turning point for Nigerian football’s continental ambitions.
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