Supporters of Algerian club MC Alger allegedly vandalised stadium facilities and attacked a member of the club’s technical staff following their team’s 2-0 defeat to Enugu Rangers in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second-round qualifying tie in Abeokuta on Sunday.
According to reports, more than 400 Algerian supporters became agitated after the final whistle at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, damaging seats in the covered stands.
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The unrest reportedly continued as some supporters followed the Algerian team towards the tunnel, where an assistant coach was allegedly assaulted.
Nigerian police officers attached to the team reportedly intervened and rescued the official from further attacks.
The incident was also said to have reached the VVIP section of the stadium.
Where former Super Eagles striker Victor Ikpeba was allegedly attacked by members of the Algerian delegation as he approached them to exchange pleasantries after the match.
Security operatives subsequently restricted movement within the stadium in an effort to prevent further violence.
On the pitch, Enugu Rangers strengthened their hopes of reaching the competition’s group stage with a 2-0 victory over the Algerian side.
Kenneth Igboke opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 81st minute before James Emo added a second goal late in the match.
The fiercely contested encounter also saw players from both teams receive red cards, while an Algerian team official was sent off.
Rangers will travel to Algiers for the return leg on 23 October, aiming to protect their two-goal advantage and secure qualification.
Despite their strong first-leg result, Rangers have reason to approach the return fixture cautiously.
In 1976, the Nigerian club defeated MC Alger 2-0 in the first leg of their African Cup of Champions Clubs encounter but lost the return match 3-0, exiting the competition 3-2 on aggregate.
MC Alger went on to win the continental title that year after defeating Hafia FC of Guinea in the final.
Rangers will hope to avoid a repeat of that outcome as they seek to advance to the group stage.
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While the reported post-match violence has raised concerns about the conduct of supporters and the safety of officials at the fixture.
Peculiar Adirika is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
