The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Algerian referee Houssam Benyahia to oversee the CAF Champions League first-round second-leg match between Rivers United and FC Les Aigles of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Benyahia will be supported by assistant referees Hamza Bouzit and Haithem Bouima, while Loutfi Bekouassa has been named fourth official. Ghana’s Munkaila Nassam Adam will serve as match commissioner.
The decisive tie will take place on Sunday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo. Rivers United secured a goalless draw in the first leg at Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa last weekend.
The victor of the contest will advance to the second round, where they will face either Congo’s AC Léopards or Mozambique’s Black Bulls.
Editorial
We believe CAF’s appointment of Algerian officials for such a critical fixture reflects the governing body’s efforts to ensure neutrality and maintain high refereeing standards. Rivers United enter this second leg with a slim advantage from the away draw, but the appointment of seasoned North African referees adds another layer of pressure. North African officials are known for their strict interpretations of the rules, and this could influence how the game flows in Uyo.
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As Nigerians, we must recognise the significance of this match. Rivers United carry the weight of national representation, and the outcome will either strengthen or weaken Nigeria’s presence in continental club football. A disciplined performance is required to avoid costly fouls or lapses in concentration that experienced referees are quick to penalise.
We also feel this is a test of character for Rivers United. A barren draw away in Kinshasa is commendable, but the home advantage must be seized. Nigerian clubs have struggled in recent CAF competitions, and victories on such occasions restore pride and belief. It is not merely a football contest but a chance to reassert Nigeria’s stature in African football.
We trust Rivers United to rise to the occasion, deliver a commanding performance, and advance to the next round.
Did You Know?
- The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo is nicknamed the “Nest of Champions” and has a seating capacity of about 30,000.
- Rivers United were formed in 2016 following the merger of Dolphins FC and Sharks FC.
- The CAF Champions League was first held in 1964 under the name African Cup of Champions Clubs.
- Algeria has produced some of Africa’s most respected referees, often appointed to officiate high-profile CAF and FIFA tournaments.
- Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa, where the first leg was played, can host over 80,000 fans, making it one of the largest stadiums in Africa.
