SPORTS
RANGERS INTERNATIONAL FC PETITIONS CAF OVER STADIUM VANDALISM AND SUPPORTER MISCONDUCT FOLLOWING VICTORY AGAINST MC ALGER
Enugu-based NPFL champions demand urgent intervention and precautionary security measures ahead of CAF Champions League return leg fixture in Algiers
Nigeria Premier Football League champions Rangers International FC of Enugu have formally petitioned the Confederation of African Football regarding acts of stadium vandalism and supporter misconduct during their CAF Champions League fixture against Algerian club MC Alger.
The formal petition follows disruptive incidents at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta on Sunday, October 18, 2026, where visiting MC Alger supporters allegedly engaged in property destruction and breach of stadium protocols following their team’s 2–0 defeat.
In its official submission to CAF, the management of Rangers International detailed specific infractions committed by visiting fans, including the forced destruction of an outer stadium entrance gate, unauthorized mass entry without purchasing match tickets, the deliberate destruction of stadium seating, and general acts of public disorder.
Addressing safety concerns ahead of the decisive second leg scheduled for Friday, October 23, 2026, in Algiers, the Flying Antelopes urged the continental governing body to institute urgent precautionary measures to guarantee the safety of players, technical staff, match officials, and travelling supporters.
Rangers International reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to sportsmanship, compliance with continental football regulations, and the security of all stakeholders, expressing firm confidence in CAF's established disciplinary procedures to address the infractions.
The Nigerian side holds a two-goal advantage heading into the return leg in Algiers, having secured the first-leg victory through late strikes from Kenneth Igboke in the 84th minute and James Emo in the 87th minute.