CAF has dismissed a formal venue protest submitted by Enugu Rangers. The decision clears the NPFL champions to travel and play their scheduled continental fixture. The match will hold at the Ali La Pointe Stadium in Algiers. Rangers had challenged the venue. CAF rejected the protest.
Enugu Rangers beat MC Alger 2-0 in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie. The match was played in Abeokuta. After the match, MC Alger fans rioted. Rangers filed a complaint with CAF. The club accused the visiting fans of forcing open a gate, entering without paying and damaging seats. Rangers wanted an investigation, reimbursement and security guarantees for the return leg. CAF has now ruled on the separate venue protest.
The protest concerned the venue for the second leg. CAF dismissed it. Rangers must travel to Algiers. The match will be played at the Ali La Pointe Stadium. The decision is a setback for Rangers. They had sought a neutral venue or additional guarantees. CAF’s ruling means they must play in hostile territory. The two-goal lead gives them an advantage. But Algiers is difficult. MC Alger have overturned deficits before. In 1976, they overturned a two-goal deficit against Rangers. History warns the Nigerian champions.
The riot complaint is separate. CAF has not yet ruled on it. Rangers want sanctions against MC Alger. They also want compensation for damages. CAF’s decision on the venue protest does not affect that case.
Winners: MC Alger, who gain home advantage. CAF, which asserts authority. Algerian fans, who gain the return leg. Losers: Enugu Rangers, whose protest failed. The club’s fans, who face travel costs. Nigerian football, which faces another hostile away tie. The riot complaint, which is overshadowed.
Bottom Line: CAF dismissed the venue protest. Rangers must play in Algiers. The two-goal lead is the cushion. History is the warning. MC Alger have done it before. Rangers must be ready.