Amoo backs Rangers International to secure Champions League progress against AS Sobemap

Former Shooting Stars coach Fatai Amoo believes Rangers International can produce a positive result against AS Sobemap FC and advance in the CAF Champions League.

The Nigerian champions were held to a 1-1 draw by the Benin Republic side in the first leg of their first-round tie in Abeokuta on Sunday.

Rangers International made the stronger start and took the lead in the 23rd minute through Chidozie Iwundu. The goal put the Enugu-based club in control and appeared to give them a platform to establish an advantage in the tie.

However, AS Sobemap FC improved after the interval and eventually found an equaliser to ensure the match ended level. Rangers will now need a more clinical display in the second leg if they are to continue their campaign in Africa’s premier club competition.

Amoo praised the performance of the Nigerian champions despite the result and said avoiding defeat had preserved their hopes of reaching the next round.

“I am impressed with the performance of Rangers International against AS Sobemap despite the fact that the tie ended 1-1.

“What is more important is that the team avoided defeat at home and can still progress to the next round if they remain positive.

“In the second leg, Rangers must maintain some level of concentration and take every goal-scoring chance that comes their way.”

The former Shooting Stars coach said Rangers’ ability to remain focused and make better use of their opportunities would be important in the reverse fixture. Their failure to turn their first-leg advantage into a victory means the tie remains finely balanced, with the outcome to be decided in the second match.

Rangers International are seeking to progress in the CAF Champions League, but they must improve in front of goal after scoring once in the opening encounter. Iwundu’s first-half strike gave them the lead, yet AS Sobemap FC’s response after half-time denied the Nigerian champions the advantage they had built.

Amoo’s assessment reflects the significance of the first-leg result: Rangers did not lose at home, but they also failed to secure the lead they had established. The team’s next task will be to maintain its concentration throughout the second leg and convert the chances that come its way.

The draw leaves Rangers International with the opportunity to advance if they can deliver the required result in the reverse fixture. For Amoo, a positive mindset, greater efficiency in attack and disciplined performance will be central to their hopes of progressing.