Rivers United delivered a spectacular performance in Uyo on Saturday, overturning a first-leg deficit against Mozambique’s Black Bulls with a commanding 3-1 victory. This result secured their place in the CAF Champions League group stage with a 3-2 aggregate triumph, marking a historic achievement for Nigerian football.
The Pride of Rivers became the first Nigerian Premier Football League club in six years to reach Africa’s premier club competition group phase. Lobi Stars was the last Nigerian side to accomplish this feat during the 2018/19 season.
Dominant First-Half Performance
Facing elimination after a 1-0 away defeat, Rivers United started aggressively from kickoff. Their early pressure nearly yielded results when Timothy Zachariah set up Ubong Friday in the sixth minute, only for the Black Bulls goalkeeper to make a crucial save.
The breakthrough arrived in the 15th minute as Wasiu Falolu calmly finished inside the box, leveling the aggregate score and igniting celebrations among home supporters. Falolu continued troubling the Mozambican defense and earned a penalty just before halftime when fouled outside the area.
Midfielder Maclyn Biokpo confidently converted the spot-kick in the 42nd minute, wrong-footing the goalkeeper to give Rivers United a 2-1 aggregate advantage at halftime.
Second-Half Drama and Decisive Strike
Black Bulls responded immediately after the restart, with Moctar Diallo scoring just two minutes into the second half to equalize the aggregate score. The visitors briefly seized momentum until coach Finidi George made strategic substitutions, introducing Rivio Ayemwenre and Samson Obi to regain control.
The decisive moment came in the 75th minute when Timothy Zachariah unleashed a spectacular long-range strike that curled into the top corner. This stunning goal restored Rivers United’s aggregate lead and ultimately secured their qualification.
The Nigerian side expertly managed the remaining minutes, neutralizing Black Bulls’ attacks before celebrating a memorable comeback with their supporters at full-time.
Rivers United will discover their group-stage opponents during the official draw scheduled for November 3 in Johannesburg, South Africa.
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