CAF allows spectators for MC Alger v Enugu Rangers despite security complaint

CAF has rejected Enugu Rangers’ request for the second leg against MC Alger to be played behind closed doors, meaning supporters will be allowed into Stade Ali Ammar in Douera on Friday, 23 October 2026.

The decision, reported on Thursday, 22 October 2026, follows a formal complaint from the Nigerian champions over alleged misconduct by MC Alger supporters during the first leg in Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Enugu Rangers said some visiting fans had damaged stadium property, forced open an entrance gate and entered the MKO Abiola Sports Complex without paying for tickets. The club also raised concerns about the safety of spectators and the protection of its players, officials and travelling delegation ahead of the return fixture in Algeria.

The club submitted photographs and video footage to CAF, asking the governing body to investigate the incidents, impose appropriate sanctions on anyone found responsible and provide assurances that sufficient security measures would be in place for the second leg.

CAF has rejected the request to exclude supporters but has opened disciplinary proceedings into the events surrounding the first match. The investigation will continue separately from Friday’s fixture, and no further punishment should be assumed before the process is complete.

Both clubs have lodged grievances relating to the encounter. MC Alger reportedly questioned a number of refereeing decisions, including the penalty awarded to Rangers and the dismissal of their midfielder Oussama Benhaoua.

The disciplinary proceedings will allow the evidence and complaints from both sides to be examined before CAF decides whether any additional sanctions are required.

Enugu Rangers take a 2-0 advantage into the second leg after scoring twice late in a match in which they played with 10 men for much of the contest.

Goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh was sent off early for Rangers, while Benhaoua received a second yellow card for MC Alger in the second half.

Despite being reduced to 10 players, Rangers went ahead when Kenneth Igboke converted a penalty in the 82nd minute. James Emo then scored five minutes later to complete a 2-0 victory at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex on Sunday, 18 October.

The second-leg fixture will be played at Stade Ali Ammar, Douera, Algeria, in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round. Enugu Rangers lead 2-0 on aggregate.

The presence of home supporters gives MC Alger the backing of their own crowd as they attempt to overturn the two-goal deficit and keep their Champions League campaign alive. Rangers must protect their advantage to secure progress to the next round.