.svg.png){kind=logo}
Nigerian champions Rangers have been drawn against Benin Republic’s AS Sobemap in the first preliminary round of the 2026/27 CAF Champions League.
The Flying Antelopes will host the first leg in Ikenne before travelling to Benin for the return fixture.
If they advance, Rangers will face either Niger Republic’s ASN Nigelec or Algerian powerhouse MC Alger in the second preliminary round.
Rivers United also face a stern test after being paired with Côte d’Ivoire’s San Pedro in the opening preliminary round.
Read Also:Rangers International Choose Remo Stars Stadium For 2026/27 CAFCL Home Games
Finidi George’s side will take on either Uganda’s Vipers SC or Mauritania’s FC Nouadhibou in the second preliminary round if they eliminate San Pedro.
The first-leg matches of the opening preliminary round are scheduled for September 4–6, with the return legs set for September 11–13, 2026.
The second preliminary round will be played from October 16–18 (first legs), while the return fixtures are slated for October 23–25, 2026.
The winners of the second preliminary round will qualify for the group stage of the competition.
Enyimba remain the only Nigerian club to have won the CAF Champions League, having lifted the prestigious trophy twice.
By Adeboye Amosu
