The result left the aggregate score at 2-2 after the two sides had also shared a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Abeokuta. Rangers held their nerve from the spot to keep their continental campaign alive.
In the return fixture at the Stade de Kégué, Rangers took the lead in the 21st minute when Fehintola Adeola turned the ball into his own net under pressure. The Flying Antelopes looked set to take a valuable advantage into the second half, but Sobemap responded after the break.
Kevin Alavo equalised in the 65th minute, rising unmarked to head home a cross from the left and level the scores once more. Neither side could find a winner in the remaining time, forcing the tie into a penalty shootout.
Rangers showed greater composure from 12 yards, converting five of their kicks to Sobemap’s four and securing progression. The victory marked an important step for coach Fidelis Ilechukwu’s side as they continue their quest for a place in the group stage of Africa’s premier club competition.
The first leg in Abeokuta had followed a similar pattern, with Chidozie Iwundu putting Rangers ahead before Sobemap fought back to level. Across the two matches the sides proved evenly matched, making the shootout a fitting way to decide the outcome.
Rangers will now turn their attention to the second preliminary round, where they are expected to face the winner of the tie between ASN Nigelec of Niger and Algerian giants MC Alger. The Nigerian champions will hope to build on the character shown in Lomé as they aim to go further in the competition.
For AS Sobemap, the exit ends a competitive campaign in which they pushed the NPFL title holders all the way. The Beninese side can take pride in their resilience, even if they ultimately fell short from the penalty spot.
The result ensures Nigeria retains representation in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League beyond the opening round, with Rangers carrying the country’s hopes into the next phase of the qualifying campaign.