CAF rejects Enugu Rangers’ behind-closed-doors request for MC Alger clash

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has rejected Enugu Rangers’ request for their CAF Champions League return-leg clash against MC Alger to be played behind closed doors in Algeria.

The Nigerian club had petitioned CAF over alleged unsportsmanlike conduct by some MC Alger supporters during the first leg at the MKO Abiola Stadium, where Rangers secured a 2-0 victory.

However, in a decision issued on October 22, 2026, CAF’s Disciplinary Board dismissed the request, confirming that Friday’s return leg in Algiers will proceed without a behind-closed-doors restriction.

Part of CAF’s official decision read: “The request submitted by Rangers International FC for the return-leg match between MC Alger and Rangers International FC, scheduled for 23 October 2026, to be played behind closed doors is rejected.”

Despite rejecting Rangers’ request, CAF confirmed that disciplinary proceedings would be opened to investigate the incidents reported during the first-leg encounter between the two clubs.

The decision means MC Alger will have the backing of their home supporters as they attempt to overturn the two-goal deficit and keep their hopes of reaching the CAF Champions League group stage alive.

The Algerian side face a difficult challenge after failing to score in Nigeria, leaving them with plenty of work to do in front of their home fans.

Rangers, meanwhile, will travel to Algeria looking to protect their advantage and complete the job by securing qualification for the next stage of the competition.