Enugu Rangers clinched a crucial 1-0 victory against Angola’s Sagrada Esperança in the first leg of their CAF Champions League final qualifying round, played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, Nigeriasoccernet.com writes.
The decisive goal came in the 78th minute when substitute Kazeem Ogunleye, a promising 18-year-old midfielder, struck a powerful shot from outside the box to beat the Esperança goalkeeper. This late goal handed Rangers a much-needed advantage heading into the return leg in Angola.
Enugu Rangers struggled to break down Sagrada’s well-organized defense despite dominating possession throughout the match. The Nigerian side created several opportunities but was disappointed by poor finishing and some resolute defending from their Angolan opponents.
However, Ogunleye’s introduction proved to be the turning point, with the youngster showing confidence in his strike to give the hosts the edge.
The victory extends Rangers’ momentum in the tournament, having previously overcome Comoran champions US Zilimadjou in the first-round qualifiers. In that tie, Rangers won 2-1 on aggregate, securing their place in this crucial stage.
Despite playing both legs of that fixture at home, Rangers showed resilience, and they will now face a more challenging task in the return leg against Esperança in Luanda on September 22.
Rangers aim to make history by advancing to the CAF Champions League group stage, a feat last achieved by a Nigerian club in 2012 when Sunshine Stars reached the semifinal of the tournament.
With this narrow victory, they will be cautious but confident as they head to Angola for the decisive second leg. Should they advance, they will represent Nigeria as the sole surviving team in this year's competition, following Remo Stars' earlier elimination by FAR Rabat.
Oluwayemi Omolagba