Angry MC Alger supporters allegedly attacked a club assistant coach and vandalised stadium facilities following their team’s 2-0 defeat to Enugu Rangers in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second-round qualifying tie in Abeokuta on Sunday.
More than 400 Algerian supporters reportedly turned violent after the final whistle at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, damaging seats in the covered stands.
The unrest allegedly continued near the players’ tunnel, where supporters reportedly assaulted one of MC Alger’s assistant coaches. Nigerian police officers attached to the Algerian delegation intervened and rescued the official from further attacks.
The incident also reportedly spread to the VVIP section, where former Super Eagles striker Victor Ikpeba was allegedly attacked by members of the Algerian delegation as he attempted to exchange pleasantries after the match.
Security operatives subsequently locked down the stadium to prevent further violence.
On the pitch, Rangers strengthened their chances of reaching the group stage with a late double. Kenneth Igboke converted an 81st-minute penalty before James Emo added the second goal towards the end of the encounter.
The fiercely contested match also featured red cards for players from both teams, while an Algerian official was sent off.
Rangers will travel to Algiers for the return leg on October 23, aiming to protect their two-goal advantage and secure qualification.
However, the Nigerian champions will be mindful of their history against MC Alger. In 1976, Rangers won the first leg of their African Cup of Champions Clubs encounter 2-0 but lost the return match 3-0, exiting 3-2 on aggregate.
MC Alger went on to win the continental title that year after defeating Guinea’s Hafia FC in the final.
Rangers will hope to avoid a repeat of that painful setback as they pursue a place in the Champions League group stage.
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