CAF Appoints Security Expert For Rangers’ Clash In Algiers

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Ugandan security expert Dixon Okello as security officer for Friday’s CAF Champions League second-leg preliminary-round encounter between MC Alger and Rangers International of Nigeria.

The appointment comes amid heightened security concerns following alleged crowd disturbances and vandalism during the first-leg match in Abeokuta, Nigeria.

The return leg is scheduled for 23 October 2026 at Stade Ali Ammar in Douera, Algiers, with kick-off set for 8pm local time (7pm GMT).

Rangers had petitioned CAF after the first leg, alleging that supporters of the Algerian club forced an entrance gate, gained access without paying for tickets and damaged seats at the stadium.

The appointment of a dedicated safety and security officer for the preliminary-round fixture underscores the importance of crowd control and security arrangements ahead of the decisive encounter.

CAF has also appointed Egypt’s Hisham Salaheldin Mostafa as match commissioner, while David Molise of Lesotho will serve as referee. Togo’s Koku Ognankotan Ntale has been named referee assessor.

The match will determine which side advances from the two-legged tie in Africa’s premier club competition.

Rangers will be seeking a positive result in Algeria after the controversy surrounding the first leg, while MC Alger will look to capitalise on home advantage to progress to the next round.

CAF’s security arrangements will be under scrutiny as both teams prepare for the encounter, particularly following the allegations raised by the Nigerian club over the conduct of some supporters during the opening leg.