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Anger erupted at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta on Sunday after supporters of Algerian club MC Alger allegedly damaged stadium facilities and attacked members of their team’s delegation following a 2-0 defeat to Enugu Rangers in the CAF Champions League.
The disturbance reportedly involved more than 400 travelling supporters who reacted angrily after their side failed to secure a favourable result in the first leg of the second-round qualifying fixture.
Tensions escalated after the final whistle, with some fans allegedly destroying seats in the stadium’s covered stands before confronting members of the Algerian team’s technical crew near the players’ tunnel. Police officers assigned to the visiting delegation reportedly intervened to protect an assistant coach from further assault.
Former Super Eagles striker Victor Ikpeba was also reportedly attacked by members of the Algerian delegation in the VVIP section while attempting to exchange pleasantries after the encounter. Security personnel subsequently tightened control of the stadium to prevent further disturbances.
On the pitch, Enugu Rangers secured the victory through two late goals. Kenneth Igboke converted a penalty in the 81st minute before James Emo found the net towards the closing stages, handing the Nigerian side a valuable advantage despite a fiercely contested encounter that saw players from both teams sent off.
Rangers will travel to Algiers on October 23 for the return leg, hoping to preserve their two-goal lead and advance in the continental competition. However, the Nigerian champions will need to remain cautious, having suffered a painful reversal against the same opponents in 1976 after winning their first leg by an identical scoreline.
