Rangers petition CAF over crowd violence

File: Rangers International

Rangers International have petitioned the Confederation of African Football following crowd violence and vandalism during their CAF Champions League encounter against MC Alger at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, on Sunday.

The Enugu-based club, in a statement on Monday, said that supporters of the Algerian side damaged an entrance gate, gained unauthorised entry without paying gate fees and vandalised seats at the stadium.

Rangers called on CAF to intervene and introduce appropriate safety measures ahead of Friday’s return leg in Algiers, stressing the need to protect players, officials and travelling supporters.

The club said the incidents had raised concerns about the safety of those attending the second leg, while urging the continental governing body to take necessary steps before the encounter.

“Rangers International FC remains committed to fair play, respect for football regulations, and the safety of players, officials, supporters, and all stakeholders,” the statement said.

The club added that it had confidence in CAF’s established processes and was awaiting a response to its petition.

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Rangers also thanked their supporters for their loyalty and urged them to remain calm and disciplined as the team prepares for the decisive second leg.

The Flying Antelopes will travel to Algeria for Friday’s fixture following the first-leg encounter in Abeokuta.

The petition comes amid concerns over crowd conduct and security at continental club competitions, with Rangers seeking assurances that adequate measures will be in place to prevent a recurrence of the alleged incidents.

CAF’s response to the petition was not included in the club’s statement.

Rangers will be hoping to navigate the return fixture safely as they pursue progress in the competition.

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