Flying Antelopes Keep Continental Dream Alive After Dramatic Shootout Victory in Lomé.
Enugu Media Village (EMV), the Most Updated Online News Platform | September 12, 2026.
Enugu Rangers have secured a place in the second preliminary round of the 2026/27 CAF Champions League after overcoming Benin Republic champions AS Sobemap 5–4 on penalties in a dramatic second-leg encounter in Lomé, Togo.
The two sides played out another 1–1 draw, leaving the aggregate score at 2–2 after the two legs. Rangers then held their nerve during the penalty shootout to seal qualification and keep their continental campaign alive.
The Nigerian champions had also drawn 1–1 with Sobemap in the first leg, setting up a tense return fixture at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé.
Rangers initially took the lead through an own goal following a dangerous free-kick delivery, but Sobemap fought back to level the contest. With neither side able to find a winning goal before the final whistle, the tie was ultimately decided from the penalty spot.
The Flying Antelopes demonstrated composure under pressure, converting their opportunities in the shootout before Azeez Falolu scored the decisive penalty to send the Enugu side through.
Rangers’ reward is a challenging second preliminary-round encounter against MC Alger of Algeria, with the fixtures scheduled for October. The Algerian champions will provide a significantly tougher test as Rangers pursue a place in the Champions League group stage.
The victory represents another important step for the Enugu-based club and Nigerian football on the continental stage. As the reigning Nigerian champions, Rangers will now turn their attention to preparations for their next CAF Champions League challenge.
The qualification has also generated excitement among supporters in Enugu and across Nigeria, with the club’s continental journey offering another opportunity to showcase Nigerian football on the African stage.
Enugu Media Village (EMV), the Most Updated Online News Platform, will continue to bring readers the latest developments from Rangers’ continental campaign and other major sporting events.
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