Nigerian clubs had a mixed start to their 2024/25 CAF Inter-club campaigns over the weekend, with Elkanemi Warriors and Rangers in action.
The was two wins and one draw as Nigerian clubs mounted their latest challenge on the continent.
On Saturday, Elkanemi Warriors played out a 1-1 draw against FC Dadje of Benin Republic at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.
Forced to relocate due to CAF's non-approval of their Maiduguri stadium and then the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja, Elkanemi struggled to find their rhythm.
The away side capitalized on the situation, taking the lead through Bless Salassi in the 30th minute.
Despite creating numerous chances, ElKanemi Warriors were unable to break down their opponents' defense until the final moments of the match.
A last-gasp equalizer in the 90th minute salvaged a draw for Elkanemi, who will now face a tough task in the return leg next Saturday at Stade de l’Amitié General Mathieu Kérékou in Cotonou.
Slim win for Nigerian champions Rangers
In Sunday’s early kickoff, NPFL champions Rangers secured a narrow 1-0 victory over US Zilimadjou of Comoros at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
Although this was technically a home game for the Comoros side, they put up a strong fight against Rangers.
However, Frank Uwumiro's 22nd-minute strike proved decisive, giving Rangers a crucial win.
Despite the narrow margin, Rangers were unable to extend their lead as US Zilimadjou's defense held firm in the second half.
The second leg is set for Friday, August 23, 2024, also at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, where Rangers will look to finish the job and advance to the next round.
Remo Stars edge AS FAR in entertaining tie
Remo Stars secured a narrow but crucial 2-1 victory over Moroccan giants AS FAR in a captivating CAF Champions League encounter at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.
The win gives the Nigerian side a slender advantage as they head into the second leg in Rabat, with everything still to play for.
In the 19th minute, Junior Nduka broke the deadlock with a powerful header, rising above the defense to meet a well-delivered free-kick and send the home fans into raptures.
The early goal put the Moroccans on the back foot, but they gradually shook off their sluggish start and began to assert their dominance.
As the first half wore on, AS FAR grew in confidence, taking control of the midfield and creating several chances. By the time the half-time whistle blew, the visitors looked the stronger of the two sides, but they were unable to convert their pressure into goals.
The second half saw AS FAR continue where they left off, and their persistence paid off just five minutes after the restart.
Joe Beya leveled the score with a well-timed header, capitalizing on a lapse in the Remo defense.
The goal was a deserved reward for the Moroccan side's improved play.
However, Remo Stars were not to be outdone. In the 68th minute, right-back Sodiq Ismail restored the home side's lead with a deft header of his own, expertly directing the ball into the net following a well-worked set piece.
The goal reinvigorated the hosts, who pushed forward in search of a third goal to cushion their lead.
Both sides continued to trade blows in an end-to-end affair, but despite the flurry of chances, no further goals were scored.
Remo Stars managed to hold on to their lead, ensuring they take a vital one-goal advantage into the return leg in Rabat.