Enugu Rangers’ hopes of reaching the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time in 44 years ended in heartbreaking fashion as they suffered a 3-0 defeat to MC Alger in the second leg of their second preliminary-round tie at the Ali La Pointe Stadium on Friday.
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions travelled to Algeria with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg at the MKO Abiola Stadium, where goals from Kenneth Igboke and James Emo had put them in a strong position to progress.
However, a remarkable second-half comeback from the Algerian champions saw them overturn the deficit, scoring three times within 34 minutes to secure a 3-2 aggregate victory and book their place in the group stage.
Rangers defended resolutely in the first half, frustrating the hosts and keeping them from finding a breakthrough. Goalkeeper Abuchi Okeke was also in impressive form, producing a series of important saves to preserve the visitors’ advantage and keep their hopes of a historic qualification alive.
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Despite Rangers’ efforts, the breakthrough finally arrived in the 58th minute when Chahreddine Boukholda headed home from close range after a corner-kick delivery was flicked towards the back post, reducing the deficit to 2-1 on aggregate.
MC Alger were handed a golden opportunity to draw level in the tie 10 minutes later after being awarded a penalty. However, Okeke came to Rangers’ rescue once again, saving Mohamed Bangoura’s effort from the spot to temporarily preserve the Nigerian side’s advantage.
The hosts continued to apply pressure in search of another goal and eventually found their reward through Bangoura, who made amends for his missed penalty with a clinical finish in the 84th minute after Okeke had initially denied a headed effort.
With the aggregate score level at 2-2, the contest appeared destined for extra time, but MC Alger had other ideas.
The Algerian side struck the decisive blow in stoppage time when Soufiane Bayazid powered home a flying header from another corner kick, completing the comeback and sending the home supporters into celebration.
The late goal proved devastating for Rangers, whose hopes of returning to the CAF Champions League group stage after more than four decades were extinguished despite their strong performance in the first leg.
The Flying Antelopes will now turn their attention to the NPFL, where they will aim to defend their domestic title following their disappointing continental exit.
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