Rangers International FC have petitioned the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following alleged incidents of stadium vandalism and disorder involving visiting supporters during and after their CAF Champions League encounter against MC Alger in Abeokuta on Sunday.

The Enugu-based club confirmed on Monday, October 19, that it had formally submitted a petition to CAF over incidents reported at the MKO Abiola Stadium during Sunday’s first-leg fixture in the second preliminary round of the competition.

According to Rangers, the reported incidents included the destruction of a stadium entrance gate, unauthorised entry without payment of admission fees, vandalisation of stadium seats and other acts of disorder.

The club has requested CAF’s urgent intervention and consideration of appropriate precautionary measures ahead of the return leg, scheduled for Friday, October 23, in Algiers, Algeria.

The petition follows an eventful first-leg encounter in which Rangers overcame an early numerical disadvantage to defeat the Algerian champions 2-0.

Rangers goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh was sent off in the opening stages, leaving the Nigerian side to play with 10 men for much of the contest. MC Alger were also reduced to 10 players in the second half following the dismissal of defender Oussama Benhaoua.

Despite the setback, Rangers secured victory through Kenneth Igboke’s penalty and a late goal by James Emo, giving the Nigerian champions a valuable two-goal advantage ahead of the return fixture.  

The club said its petition was intended to draw CAF’s attention to the reported incidents and ensure that appropriate measures were considered before the teams meet again in Algeria.

Rangers also emphasised the importance of protecting players, match officials, supporters and other stakeholders involved in continental football competitions.

The club maintained that it remained committed to fair play, respect for football regulations and the safety of everyone involved in the game.

“We have confidence in the established processes of CAF and await its response,” the club said in its statement.

Rangers further appealed to their supporters to remain calm, disciplined and focused as the team prepares for the decisive second leg.

The return fixture in Algiers will determine which side advances from the two-legged tie, with Rangers carrying a 2-0 lead into the encounter.

The club’s petition places the reported incidents before CAF, whose response and any potential disciplinary measures will depend on the relevant reports and applicable competition regulations.

Rangers will now turn their attention to the sporting challenge in Algeria, where they will seek to protect their first-leg advantage and secure progress in the CAF Champions League.