Rangers Seek First-Leg Advantage Against AS Sobemap in CAF Champions League

Posted : 02 September 2026

Enugu Rangers will begin their CAF Champions League preliminary-round campaign against AS Sobemap of Porto-Novo, with chairman Amobi Ezeaku confident that the Nigerian champions are ready for the continental challenge. The Flying Antelopes will host the Beninese side in the first leg before travelling to Porto-Novo for the return fixture.

Rangers are targeting a positive result that will give them an advantage before the decisive second leg. Ezeaku said the team will maintain its determination and fight until the final whistle.

“We will come out and push till the end in our clash against AS Sobemap of Porto-Novo on Sunday,” Ezeaku said. He also pointed to Rangers' opening NPFL fixture as evidence of the squad's fighting spirit.

The Enugu club began its title defence with a 1-1 draw against Katsina United on August 30. Rangers found a late equaliser in the match, reinforcing Ezeaku's belief that the squad has the mentality to compete through difficult moments.

The CAF tie is particularly important for Rangers as they seek to maintain their presence in African club competition. The club won the 2025/26 NPFL title and will now attempt to carry its domestic success onto the continental stage.

Ezeaku has also asked supporters to remain patient as the club continues its rebuilding process. He wants the team's followers to trust the direction of the project as Rangers compete on both domestic and continental fronts.

“We are on a journey as a team and we want the club supporters to trust the process,” he said. The chairman also called on supporters and other football fans to attend the first leg and create a strong atmosphere for the players.

Rangers' home venue for the continental fixture has been a key part of the build-up. The available fixture listings confirm the first leg against AS Sobemap in Nigeria, followed by the return encounter in Porto-Novo later in the month.

The Nigerian champions will need to balance their continental commitments with their NPFL schedule. The CAF first leg is followed by a league trip to Warri Wolves, while the return fixture against AS Sobemap comes before another home league match against Nasarawa United.

For Rangers, securing a convincing first-leg advantage would provide an important platform for the return match. Ezeaku believes the team's resilience and support from the stands can help the Flying Antelopes make a strong start to their CAF Champions League campaign.

Rangers Seek First-Leg Advantage Against AS Sobemap in CAF Champions League

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