More than 400 supporters were reported to have been involved in the disturbance at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, where seats in the covered stands were allegedly damaged after the final whistle.
The situation reportedly escalated when some supporters followed the Algerian team towards the players’ tunnel and allegedly assaulted an assistant coach. Nigerian police officers assigned to the visiting team intervened and rescued the official from further harm.
The unrest 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 while attempting to exchange pleasantries after the match.
Security personnel subsequently restricted movement within the stadium in an effort to contain the situation and prevent further incidents.
On the pitch, Rangers strengthened their position in the tie with two late goals. Kenneth Igboke opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 81st minute before James Emo struck again towards the end of the encounter to give the Nigerian champions a two-goal advantage ahead of the return fixture.
The match was also marked by disciplinary incidents, with players from both teams receiving red cards and an official from the Algerian side being sent off.
Rangers will travel to Algiers for the second leg on 23 October, aiming to preserve their advantage and secure a place in the competition’s group stage.
However, the Nigerian side will be mindful of a painful chapter in their previous meetings with MC Alger. In 1976, Rangers won the first leg of their African Cup of Champions Clubs encounter 2–0 but suffered a 3–0 defeat in the return fixture, losing 3–2 on aggregate.
MC Alger went on to claim the continental crown that year, defeating Guinea’s Hafia FC in the final.
