Enugu Rangers took a significant step towards the CAF Champions League group stage with a 1-0 victory over Angola’s Sagrada Esperanca, thanks to a stunning strike from Kazeem Ogunleye, Soccernet.ng reports.
The first-leg encounter of the final preliminary round took place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, where Rangers were able to edge out a resilient Sagrada side.
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Having already navigated past Comoros’ US Zilimadjou in the previous round, Rangers entered this tie full of confidence.
The Nigerian champions won 1-0 away in the first leg and followed it up with a 1-1 draw at home to progress.
However, Sagrada Esperanca, the champions of Angola, also arrived in Nigeria in strong form.
They had dominated Seychelles’ St Louis Suns United, winning both legs for an impressive 4-0 aggregate victory in the previous round.
Sagrada proved to be a tough opponent, frustrating Rangers’ attacking efforts with solid defending throughout the match.
For large periods, the Angolan side looked poised to secure a valuable away draw. But in the 80th minute, Kazeem Ogunleye broke the deadlock with a moment of individual brilliance.
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The 18-year-old midfielder, formerly of Plateau United, unleashed a powerful long-range shot from outside the box, leaving the Sagrada goalkeeper with no chance as the ball flew into the net.
Full time victory locked in at home! One down, and now we focus on finishing strong in the second leg away!#RANSAG #CAFCL#GloryDays #NeverSayDie pic.twitter.com/fotWsULji3
— Rangers International FC (@Rangers_Intl) September 13, 2024
The goal is Ogunleye’s first on the continental stage, a milestone in his burgeoning career.
Rangers now take a slim 1-0 lead into the second leg, which will be played at the Estádio 11 de Novembro, Luanda, Angola on Sunday, September 22.
The aggregate winner will secure a coveted spot in the lucrative CAF Champions League group stage.
Rangers remain Nigeria’s only hope in the competition after Remo Stars were eliminated by FAR Rabat in the first round.
