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2026/2027 CAF Champions League: Rangers Survive Sobemap Scare to Reach Second Round

Posted : 13 September 2026

Enugu Rangers survived a tense first-round battle against AS Sobemap of Benin Republic, advancing to the second preliminary round of the 2026/2027 CAF Champions League after a 5–4 penalty shootout victory in Lomé.

The Flying Antelopes were unable to secure an advantage from the first leg, played in Abeokuta, where both teams settled for a 1–1 draw.

That stalemate was repeated in the return fixture at the Stade de Kégué on Friday, as Rangers and Sobemap again failed to produce a winner after regulation time.

With the aggregate score locked at 2–2, the tie had to be decided from the penalty spot, where the Nigerian champions demonstrated greater composure to claim a 5–4 victory.

Rangers’ success was built on their ability to remain composed throughout a tie in which neither side could establish a decisive advantage.

Chidozie Iwundu had given Rangers the lead in the opening encounter in Abeokuta, but Sobemap responded to ensure the first leg ended level, leaving the Nigerian champions facing a difficult assignment in the return fixture.

The second leg offered little between the teams, with Rangers unable to break through the Beninese defence, while Sobemap equally failed to find the goal that would have settled the contest inside 90 minutes.

The penalty shootout ultimately provided the difference, with Rangers converting when it mattered most to keep their continental campaign alive.

For the Nigerian champions, the qualification represents more than just progression to the next round. It also provides valuable competitive experience after a first-round tie that demanded patience, defensive discipline and composure under pressure.

Rangers will now face a tougher challenge in the second preliminary round, where they are scheduled to meet the winner of the tie between ASN Nigelec of Niger Republic and Algerian giants MC Alger.

The Flying Antelopes will need to raise their level in the next round if they are to move closer to the Champions League group stage, but Friday’s narrow escape has ensured that their continental journey remains firmly on course.

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