Rivers United manager Finidi George has expressed immense pride after guiding the Port Harcourt club to the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time. This historic achievement came following their decisive 3-1 victory over Mozambique’s Black Bulls at Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
Historic Qualification Ends Nigerian Drought
Speaking after the match, Finidi described the qualification as a landmark moment. The 3-2 aggregate victory ends Nigeria’s six-year absence from the group phase. “This is special for the club and myself,” the former Super Eagles star stated. “We’ve worked hard for this achievement.”
The coach praised his players’ resilience after their first-leg 1-0 defeat in Mozambique. “We created chances there but couldn’t convert. Fortunately, we delivered at home with three goals,” Finidi remarked. He emphasized the team deserved their group-stage spot.
Match Highlights and Key Moments
Rivers United dominated Saturday’s decisive encounter from the start. Wasiu Falolu opened scoring in the 15th minute by pouncing on a rebound. Maclyn Biokpo doubled the lead just before halftime with a penalty conversion.
Black Bulls narrowed the gap through Moctar Diallo early in the second half. Timothy Zachariah sealed the historic victory with a superb 78th-minute strike. This ensured Rivers United’s progression despite the away defeat.
Future Plans and Domestic Commitments
Finidi, who previously led Enyimba in continental competitions, outlined next steps. “We’ll analyze the group stage draw carefully,” he stated. The coach mentioned potential squad reinforcements to compete against Africa’s elite clubs.
Rivers United now shifts focus to domestic duties. They host Ikorodu City FC in NPFL action on Wednesday. Matches against Bendel Insurance and Barau FC follow. This historic qualification marks Nigeria’s return to the Champions League group stage since Lobi Stars’ 2018-19 campaign.
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