Rangers International have secured their place in the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League after edging out Beninese side Sobemap FC 5-4 on penalties following a tense 1-1 draw in the second leg at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé on Friday. The aggregate score ended 2-2, forcing the tie into a penalty shootout where Rangers held their composure to advance. This hard-fought victory marks a crucial step for the Nigerian champions as they continue their campaign to return to continental football’s top tier.
The match began with Rangers taking an early lead in the 22nd minute through an own goal by a Sobemap defender, giving them a valuable advantage in the first leg. However, the home side responded strongly, equalizing with 25 minutes remaining in the second half to level the tie. Despite both teams creating chances, neither could break the deadlock in regular time, sending the contest into a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.
In the shootout, Rangers displayed remarkable focus and discipline, converting all five of their spot-kicks. Sobemap FC managed four successful penalties but ultimately fell short, missing their fifth attempt. The win was a testament to the team’s resilience and mental strength under pressure, qualities that will be essential as they face tougher opponents ahead.
Fidelis Ilechukwu, the head coach, has now guided his team through a difficult qualifying hurdle, setting up a challenging clash against Algerian giants MC Alger in the next round. The encounter will take place in Nigeria, giving Rangers the advantage of playing at home. MC Alger are seasoned campaigners in African football, having reached the final of the CAF Champions League in recent years, making this a significant test for the Nigerian side.
This progression comes at a critical time for Rangers, who are aiming to reestablish themselves as a dominant force in Nigerian and continental football. Their performance against Sobemap highlights their ability to compete against tough opposition, even when not at their best. Fans across Nigeria will be hopeful that this momentum continues as the club seeks to reach the group stage of the tournament for the first time in years.
The journey to the CAF Champions League group phase remains long and demanding, but Rangers have taken a vital step forward. With confidence growing and home support behind them, the team is poised to make a deeper run in Africa’s premier club competition.
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