By Amaechi Agbo
Rangers International General Manager, Amobi Ezeaku, has rewarded the club’s players with a $10,000 cash gift following their qualification for the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League.
According to a report by The Punch, Ezeaku announced the reward after Rangers defeated Benin Republic champions AS Sobemap on penalties in Lomé, Togo.
The Flying Antelopes secured a 5-4 victory in the shootout after the second-leg encounter ended 1-1 after regulation time.
The same scoreline was recorded in the first leg in Abeokuta, forcing the tie to be decided from the penalty spot.
Although Rangers missed their opening penalty, they maintained their composure as AS Sobemap missed twice, allowing the Nigerian champions to advance to the next round.
Addressing the players after the victory, Ezeaku announced the $10,000 reward and assured them that further rewards would follow for their efforts.
The Rangers chief described the gesture as recognition of the players’ fighting spirit, commitment, and dedication to the club.
Ezeaku also urged the team to maintain discipline as they prepare for a tougher challenge in the next round of the competition.
Rangers will now turn their attention to the second preliminary round, where they are expected to face Algerian champions MC Alger, who were held to a goalless draw by ASN Nigelec of Niger Republic in the first leg of their tie.
The Enugu-based club will be hoping to continue their progress in the continent’s premier club competition after their previous attempt to reach the group stage ended during the preliminary round following their 2024 NPFL title triumph.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
