Enugu Rangers are now just a game away from reaching the money-spinning group phase of the CAF Champions League after they beat MC Alger 2-0 in a second round first leg match played in Abeokuta today.
The Nigerian champions had to play without their goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh for almost an hour after he was sent off early on.
However, ‘The Flying Antelopes’ showed character to fight on to get two late goals and keep a clean sheet going into the return leg in North Africa.
First half was scoreless with the visitors enjoying more of the ball.
Super Eagles defender Kenneth Igboke opened scoring for Rangers in the 84th minute from the penalty spot, before James Emo doubled the advantage three minutes later.
An Algerian player and an official also saw red in this encounter.
The overall winners of this tie will advance to the mini-league stage of the competition.
