CAF Champions League: CAF Rejects Rangers' International Request to Play MC Alger Clash Behind Closed Doors

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has rejected Enugu Rangers’ request to play the return leg against MC Alger behind closed doors.

Enugu Rangers had earlier petitioned CAF over alleged unsportsmanlike conduct by some MCA supporters during the first leg at the MKO Abiola Stadium, which the Nigerian side won 2-0.

However, in a decision issued on October 22, 2026, CAF’s Disciplinary Board turned down the request, confirming that the return leg scheduled for October 23 in Algiers will not be played behind closed doors.

Part of the 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.”

CAF also confirmed that disciplinary proceedings would be opened concerning the incidents reported during the first-leg encounter between the two clubs.

Meanwhile, MC Alger face a difficult task in the return leg after losing 2-0 in Nigeria. The Algerian side must overturn the deficit in front of their home supporters to keep their hopes of reaching the CAF Champions League group stage alive.

Rangers, on the other hand, will aim to protect their two-goal advantage and secure qualification for the next stage of the competition.