Two Nigerian football clubs, Rangers International of Enugu and El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri, have exited the CAF club competitions following disappointing results in the return legs of their matches. Both sides had given themselves promising opportunities to advance after their first-leg results, but their continental campaigns ended in frustration as their North African opponents produced decisive performances when it mattered most.
Rangers, who lost 2-1 to Al Ahly of Egypt, were leading 1-0 in the first half of the second leg. However, a late brace from Mohamed Sherif secured the win for the Egyptian side. El-Kanemi, who drew 1-1 with Espérance de Tunis, were also hoping to advance following a goalless first-half draw in Tunisia. But, a late goal by Ferjani Sassi ensured that Espérance progressed to the next round.
This latest exit by Nigerian clubs from the CAF club competitions comes after a disappointing showing in last season’s Champions League and Confederation Cup. Nigerian clubs have struggled to make an impact in the competitions in recent years, with only a handful of teams managing to progress beyond the group stages.
With the new season now underway, Nigerian football fans will be hoping for a more successful campaign by the country’s representatives in the CAF club competitions.
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