Rangers Petition CAF Over MC Alger Fan Misconduct Ahead of Return Leg

Posted : 19 October 2026

Rangers International have formally petitioned the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over alleged misconduct by MC Alger supporters following Sunday's CAF Champions League second preliminary-round first leg in Abeokuta. The Nigerian champions want CAF to consider ordering that Friday's return fixture in Algiers be played behind closed doors.

According to Rangers' petition, the reported incidents included the destruction of a stadium entrance gate, unauthorised entry without payment of gate fees, damage to stadium seats and other acts of disorder. The club has called for urgent intervention and appropriate precautionary measures before the second leg.

Rangers also reaffirmed their commitment to fair play, football regulations and the safety of players, officials, supporters and other stakeholders. The club said it trusts CAF's established procedures and is awaiting a response to its complaint.

The petition follows a dramatic first-leg encounter at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on Sunday, October 18. Rangers secured a 2-0 victory despite playing with 10 men for much of the match after goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh received a straight red card in the 13th minute for a foul on MC Alger forward Zakaria Naidji.

The Flying Antelopes eventually broke the deadlock in the closing stages. Kenneth Igboke converted a penalty in the 84th minute before James Emo struck three minutes later to give the Nigerian side a valuable two-goal advantage.

MC Alger also had a player sent off during the contest, as defender Oussama Benhaoua was dismissed in the second half. Rangers took advantage of the numerical balance to finish strongly and secure an important result against the Algerian champions.

Reports following the match also described disorder involving visiting supporters, including damage to stadium facilities. The incidents have now become a major talking point ahead of the decisive return fixture.

The second leg is scheduled for Friday, October 23, 2026, in Algiers. Rangers will attempt to protect their aggregate lead and secure a place in the CAF Champions League group stage, while MC Alger must overturn the two-goal deficit on home soil.

CAF's response to Rangers' petition could determine whether any additional measures are imposed ahead of the fixture. However, no decision on the club's request had been confirmed in the reports available as of October 19.

Rangers Petition CAF Over MC Alger Fan Misconduct Ahead of Return Leg

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