Nigerian champions Enugu Rangers International were held to a 1-1 draw by Benin champions AS Sobemap in the first leg of their CAF Champions League first-round encounter in Abeokuta on Sunday.

Playing at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena because of ongoing renovations at their home ground in Enugu, the Flying Antelopes struggled to impose themselves on the visitors and failed to capitalise on home advantage.

Rangers took the lead through defender Chidozie Iwundu, who reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the box following one of Daniel Itodo’s long throws.

The Nigerian champions, however, could not build on their advantage as Sobemap remained comfortable for much of the contest.

Just a minute after the restart, the visitors drew level when Iwundu inadvertently turned a dangerous cross from the left into his own net.

Rangers increased the pressure in search of a winning goal but found the Sobemap defence difficult to break down.

The Flying Antelopes came closest through set-piece situations, including a late effort that struck the crossbar, but they were unable to find the decisive goal.

Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu handed starts to new signings Emo James, Folarin Temitope and Chimezie Izuchukwu, while captain Chidiebere Nwobodo was unavailable for the encounter.

Despite Rangers' attempts to regain the lead, Sobemap remained disciplined and secured a valuable draw ahead of the return leg.

The Benin champions will now head into the second leg with confidence, having avoided defeat in Nigeria and secured an important away result.

Rangers, meanwhile, face the task of producing a stronger performance in the return fixture if they are to progress to the next stage of the CAF Champions League.