Enugu Rangers were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against AS Sobemap of Benin Republic in the first leg of their CAF Champions League first preliminary round tie at the Moshood Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on Sunday.
The Nigerian champions made an energetic start to the encounter, taking control of possession and putting the visitors under sustained pressure during the opening stages.
Their positive approach finally paid off in the 23rd minute when Iwundu Chidozie found the back of the net to give Rangers a deserved lead.
With Fidelis Ilechukwu’s side firmly in control, Rangers created several opportunities to increase their advantage before half-time. However, they were unable to convert their chances, leaving the door open for a second-half response from the visitors.
AS Sobemap returned from the break with renewed determination and quickly turned the game on its head, scoring an early equaliser to bring the score level.
Rangers immediately went in search of a winning goal, pushing forward and creating a number of clear-cut opportunities. Despite their efforts, poor finishing proved costly as the Flying Antelopes failed to reclaim their lead.
The 1-1 result leaves the tie delicately balanced ahead of the second leg in Benin Republic. Rangers will now look to make the most of their chances when the two sides meet again next Sunday, with the winner over the two legs qualifying for the next stage of the competition.
