Nigeria’s Rivers United suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat. They played RS Berkane in their second CAF Champions League group stage match. Coach Finidi George expressed his deep disappointment.
This followed an initial 3-0 loss to Egypt’s Pyramids. Rivers United urgently needed a victory. They played at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium. A win would have kept their progression hopes alive.
First Half Promise, Second Half Pain
The first half saw them dominate. Mamadou Camara of RS Berkane scored an own goal. This put the home side 1-0 up in the 37th minute. Finidi’s team controlled much of the play. They, however, could not double their advantage.
“I believe we played well in the first half,” Finidi George commented post-match. “We created chances and controlled the game. But football demands taking opportunities.”
The second half unfolded differently. RS Berkane gradually took control of the match. They tested Rivers United’s defence repeatedly. The Nigerian side resisted fiercely. However, their defence crumbled during stoppage time.
Youness El Kaabi equalized for Berkane. His goal came in the 97th minute from a set piece. Barely a minute later, Mounir Chouair struck again. A deflected clearance left Rivers United’s defence exposed. This sealed their dramatic 2-1 victory.
Coach’s Heartbreak and Future Outlook
Finidi George found the timing of the goals especially painful. “To concede two goals in two minutes is heartbreaking,” the former Super Eagles coach stated. “The players showed spirit. Still, we must learn from this.”
This loss places Rivers United at the bottom of Group A. They currently have zero points. Their next match is crucial. They will travel to face Power Dynamos in Zambia. Any further slip-ups could end their Champions League journey. The January return fixtures are now absolute must-win scenarios.
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