Finidi George’s side fought back strongly after falling two goals behind, but the comeback was not enough to secure their progression to the next round.
Advertisement
Advertisement
The Port Harcourt-based club bowed out after the tie ended 3-3 on aggregate, with the Ivorians advancing on the away-goals rule.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s other representatives, Enugu Rangers, booked their place in the second preliminary round after defeating Beninese side Sobemap FC 5-4 on penalties.
Rangers will face Algerian giants MC Alger next month, with a place in the CAF Champions League group stage at stake.