Rivers United suffered a shock elimination in the CAF Champions League, while Elkanemi Warriors progressed in the CAF Confederation Cup, www.aclsports.com reports.
The Pride of Rivers were heavy favourites to progress after the first leg in San Pedro last weekend; however, two early goals at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo put them under immense pressure, and they failed to recover. Chijioke Mbaoma scored a penalty just before the break to spark a comeback.
However, Finidi George’s side continued to miss chances as the second half started. With two minutes left on the clock, Iyowuna Douglas converted from the spot again to set up a grandstand finish to the contest. Despite a late push for the winning goal, Rivers United did not get it, and they were knocked out on the away goals rule.
Also in the CAF Champions League, Rangers triumphed on penalties to knock out Benin side AS Sobemap in Togo.
In the second tier of Africa’s club competition, Nigerian cup champions Elkanemi went past UDIB of Guinea-Bissau despite losing 1-0 in the second leg on Sunday. Following a handsome lead in the first leg in Ikenne last weekend, the Borno Army did well enough to book their spot in the second preliminary round.
Despite the fight in Sfax, Shooting Stars, who won the first leg in Abeokuta, were beaten 2-0 by Tunisian side CS Sfaxien on Sunday night. Iyed Belwafi and Youssef Habchia scored for the hosts in a game played behind closed doors.
It is the end of the road for Rivers United and Shooting Stars, while Rangers International and Elkanemi Warriors have second-round ties in their respective competitions in the month of October.
Second Preliminary Round Ties
Rangers International v MC Alger – CAF Champions League
First leg in Abeokuta: October 16-18
Second leg in Algiers: October 23-25
Elkanemi Warriors v Raja Casablanca – CAF Confederation Cup
First leg in Abeokuta: October 16-18
Second leg in Casablanca: October 23-25
