Rivers United of Nigeria faced a painful 2-1 defeat. They lost to RS Berkane in their second CAF Champions League group stage match. This result left coach Finidi George deeply disappointed.
The Port Harcourt side had previously lost 3-0 to Egypt’s Pyramids. Therefore, a victory at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium was crucial. They needed it to keep their progression hopes alive.
For most of the first half, Rivers United seemed on course. An own goal came in the 37th minute. RS Berkane’s Mamadou Camara scored it, giving the home team a 1-0 lead. Finidi’s players controlled the game. Yet, they could not extend their advantage.
“We played well in the first half,” Finidi George stated after the match. He added, “We created chances and controlled the game. However, football demands that you take your opportunities.”
The second half, however, brought a different narrative. RS Berkane slowly took control. They tested the Rivers United defense constantly. The Nigerian side held firm for a while. But their resistance eventually broke during stoppage time.
Youness El Kaabi scored the equalizer. It came from a set piece in the 97th minute. Barely a minute later, Mounir Chouair struck again. A deflected Rivers United clearance left their defense vulnerable.
Finidi George confessed the timing of these goals was very painful. “To concede two goals in two minutes is heartbreaking,” he remarked. The former Super Eagles coach added, “The players showed great spirit. Still, we must learn from this experience.”
This defeat places Rivers United at the bottom of Group A. They currently have zero points. Their upcoming match against Power Dynamos in Zambia is crucial. Any more slip-ups could prematurely end their Champions League journey. Their return to the competition in January becomes a must-win situation.
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