The decision, reported on Thursday, 22 October 2026, comes after Rangers lodged a formal complaint following alleged misconduct by MC Alger supporters during the first leg in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
However, CAF has opened disciplinary proceedings to investigate the incidents surrounding the match, which Rangers won 2-0 at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex on Sunday, 18 October.
Rangers’ complaint over alleged fan misconduct
Rangers asked CAF to order a closed-door fixture after alleging that some MC Alger supporters damaged stadium property, forced an entrance gate and entered the venue without paying for tickets.
The Nigerian champions also raised concerns about spectator safety and the protection of their players, officials and travelling delegation ahead of the return fixture in Algeria.
The club submitted photographs and video footage in support of its complaint and requested an investigation, appropriate sanctions against anyone found responsible and assurances that adequate security measures would be in place for the second leg.
CAF’s decision means the match will proceed with spectators present, while the disciplinary investigation continues separately.
CAF opens disciplinary proceedings
Although the governing body rejected the request to exclude supporters, it has initiated proceedings concerning the reported incidents during the first leg.
Both clubs have also raised grievances relating to the encounter. MC Alger reportedly challenged refereeing decisions, including the penalty awarded to Rangers and the dismissal of midfielder Oussama Benhaoua.
The disciplinary process will allow the relevant evidence and complaints to be examined before any further sanctions are determined.
No additional punishment should be assumed until CAF announces the outcome of its proceedings.
Rangers defend two-goal advantage in Algeria
On the pitch, Rangers hold a valuable advantage after scoring twice late in the first leg despite playing with 10 men for much of the contest.
Kenneth Igboke converted a penalty in the 82nd minute before James Emo added the second goal five minutes later, giving the Nigerian champions a 2-0 victory.
Both teams had a player sent off. Rangers goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh was dismissed early in the match, while Benhaoua received a second yellow card for MC Alger in the second half.
The result leaves MC Alger needing to overturn a two-goal deficit at home to keep their Champions League campaign alive.
Return-leg details
• Fixture: MC Alger vs Enugu Rangers
• Competition: CAF Champions League, second preliminary round
• Date: Friday, 23 October 2026
• Venue: Stade Ali Ammar, Douera, Algeria
• First-leg result: Enugu Rangers 2-0 MC Alger
• Aggregate: Rangers lead 2-0
With the closed-door request rejected, MC Alger will have the backing of their home supporters as they attempt to overturn the deficit. Rangers, meanwhile, must manage the pressure and protect their advantage to secure progress to the next round.