Rangers’ request for closed-doors MC Alger tie rejected by CAF

Rangers’ CAF Champions League preliminary round second-leg match against MC Alger will be played in front of supporters after the Confederation of African Football rejected the Nigerian club’s request to have the fixture staged behind closed doors.

The decisive game is scheduled for Friday evening (today) at the Ali La Pointe Stadium in Douera, Algeria. MC Alger fans will therefore be permitted to attend as the two sides compete for a place in the group stage of the CAF Champions League.

Rangers had petitioned CAF following concerns over the conduct of MC Alger supporters. However, the governing body’s decision means the home crowd will be present for the return leg.

MC Alger’s management has called on its supporters to behave responsibly during the match. Fans have been urged to show discipline, uphold good sportsmanship and help ensure the fixture takes place in a peaceful atmosphere.

Rangers hold a 2-0 advantage from the first leg, which was played at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta last weekend.

The Nigerian champions now need to preserve that lead in Algeria to complete the tie and secure qualification for the next stage of the competition.

By Adeboye Amosu