Rangers and Rivers United Learn Their CAF Champions League Preliminary Round Opponents
Defending Nigerian Premier League champions Rangers have been handed a first‑preliminary‑round tie against Benin Republic’s AS Sobemap. The opening leg will be played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, with the return fixture scheduled in Benin. The first leg is set for September 4‑6, while the return leg will take place from September 11‑13.
Should Rangers advance, they will face either Niger’s ASN Nigelec or Algerian powerhouse MC Alger in the second preliminary round. Those matches are slated for October 16‑18, with the return legs from October 23‑25.
Rivers United’s Draw
Rivers United, under head coach Finidi George, have been drawn against Ivorian club San Pedro. The Nigerians must overcome the West African side to keep their hopes of reaching the lucrative group stage alive.
If Rivers United progress, their second‑round opponent will be either Uganda’s Vipers SC or Mauritania’s FC Nouadhibou. Winners at that stage will secure a place in the group phase of Africa’s premier club competition.
Enyimba remains the only Nigerian club to have lifted the CAF Champions League, winning back‑to‑back titles in 2003 and 2004. Rangers and Rivers United will be aiming to emulate the People’s Elephant’s success as they carry Nigeria’s hopes in this season’s tournament.
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