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Nigerian champions are walking a tightrope after edging stubborn Angolan side Sagrada Esperanca at home in the CAFCL.
Nigerian champions Rangers FC edged past Angolan side Sagrada Esperanca with a 1-0 victory in the first leg of the CAF Champions League (CAFCL) second round qualifiers.
The match, played in Uyo, saw the Flying Antelopes struggle to capitalise on their home advantage, leaving them with a narrow lead to defend in the return fixture.
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The breakthrough came in the second half when substitute Kazeem Ogunleye proved to be the difference-maker.
Ogunleye, introduced by Super Eagles assistant coach and Rangers manager Fidelis Ilechukwu, unleashed a spectacular long-range strike to break the deadlock and send the home fans into raptures.
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Despite the win, Rangers' performance left much to be desired, particularly in the attacking third.
The Nigerian side squandered several promising opportunities, especially after the interval, which could have put the tie beyond doubt. This wastefulness in front of goal may come back to haunt them in the second leg, as they now face a precarious situation away from home.
On a positive note, Ilechukwu will be pleased with his team's defensive solidity. The clean sheet marked Rangers' second consecutive shutout, providing a foundation to build upon for the return leg.
However, the coach will undoubtedly be looking for significant improvements in the team's offensive output if they are to progress in the competition.
As it stands, Rangers FC find themselves walking a tightrope. While they hold a slender advantage, the tie remains delicately poised.
The Flying Antelopes will need to show more clinical finishing and attacking prowess in the second leg if they hope to secure their place in the next round of Africa's premier club competition.
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