Rangers International went into their CAF Champions League first leg against AS SOBEMAP looking for a convincing home advantage. They got the lead through Chidozie Iwundu, reached halftime in front and surrendered that advantage shortly after the restart. A 1–1 draw in Abeokuta leaves the tie open — and moves the examination away from home.
Rivers United left Côte d’Ivoire with a 1–1 draw against FC San Pedro after recovering from a goal down in their CAF Champions League first-leg tie. The result keeps the contest level and moves the decisive leg back to Nigeria. The away test has been survived. Now Rivers must turn that platform into qualification.
The 2026/27 CAF Champions League begins this weekend with 61 clubs entered, a $6 million prize waiting at the end and Rangers International and Rivers United carrying Nigeria’s challenge.
Rangers International and Rivers United have learned their opening opponents in the 2026/27 CAF Champions League, with first-leg ties scheduled for 4–6 September.
