Benin Republic club AS Sobemap cage NPFL champions Rangers in CAF Champions League clash

Rangers have been handed a difficult task in the CAF Champions League after being held to a 1-1 draw by Benin Republic side AS Sobemap in the first leg of their first preliminary round tie.

The Nigerian champions were unable to secure a home advantage at the Moshood Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, as AS Sobemap fought back after Rangers had taken the lead and held on for a valuable result.

Rangers take early lead

Rangers started the encounter with greater attacking intent and were rewarded in the 23rd minute when Iwundu Chidozie found the back of the net to give the home side a 1-0 advantage.

The goal appeared to settle Rangers, who continued to push forward in search of a second goal that could have given them a comfortable cushion before the break.

AS Sobemap fight back

The visitors, however, returned for the second half with renewed determination and succeeded in restoring parity early in the period.

The equaliser changed the complexion of the game, with AS Sobemap growing in confidence while Rangers faced increasing pressure to regain their lead.

Rangers waste chances

Rangers created opportunities to reclaim the advantage but failed to make the most of their chances in front of goal.

Despite their efforts to break through the visitors’ defence, the Nigerian side could not find a decisive second goal before the final whistle.

The 1-1 result means Rangers will have to produce a stronger performance in the return leg if they are to progress to the next stage of Africa’s premier club competition.

Pressure shifts to return leg

With the first leg ending level, AS Sobemap now have the psychological advantage of securing an away draw, while Rangers know that they cannot afford another below-par display in the second encounter.

Rangers will need greater attacking efficiency and defensive concentration in the return leg, as they aim to keep their CAF Champions League campaign alive and secure qualification for the next round.