In a promising start for Nigerian clubs in the CAF Champions League, Enugu Rangers and Remo Stars both emerged victorious in their preliminary matches on Sunday, marking significant strides towards becoming the first Nigerian champions since 2004.
Enugu Rangers, former winners of the defunct African Cup Winners Cup in 1977, edged out Zilimadjou of Comoros with a slender 1-0 victory in the first leg of their first-round clash. The lone goal came from Frank Uwumiro in the 22nd minute at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. Due to the Comoros lacking an international-standard stadium, the return leg will also be hosted in Uyo, giving Rangers a favorable advantage.
Remo Stars also made a winning start with a hard-fought 2-1 triumph over Moroccan side FAR Rabat in Ikenne. Nduka Junior opened the scoring for the Stars with a header from a free-kick by Ismaila Sodiq in the 19th minute. FAR Rabat equalized through Joel Beya in the 50th minute, but Sodiq restored Remo's lead with a decisive header in the 66th minute. The return leg in Rabat on August 25 promises to be a closely contested affair.
Egyptian giants continue to dominate the competition, with Al Ahly, the record 12-time champions, set to enter the second round after receiving a bye. They will face either Merreikh Bentiu of South Sudan or Gor Mahia of Kenya, with Bentiu currently leading 1-0 from the first leg.
South African club Orlando Pirates, the first team from the country to win the Champions League, played to a 0-0 draw against debutants Disciples of Madagascar. Meanwhile, Ghanaian newcomers Samartex secured a crucial 1-0 away win against Victoria United of Cameroon, thanks to Emmanuel Mamah's goal shortly after halftime.
For Nigerian clubs, these early victories are a promising sign as they look to advance past the preliminary stages and make their mark in African club football. Enugu Rangers and Remo Stars hope to build on their strong starts in the second leg of their ties to progress further in the prestigious competition.
